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How to become a notary public in Maryland. Commission term: 4 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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67% of data points are verified against official sources. 4 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
4 years
Commission Term
before renewal
Yes
Education Required
online allowed
Yes
Exam Required
state exam
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of Maryland (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
All new and renewing applicants must complete an SOS-approved notary course and pass an exam (effective since October 1, 2021). Online courses are accepted. Education cost: $50-$100.
Must pass the exam included with the SOS-approved course. Administered by: SOS-approved providers.
Submit your application to the Maryland Secretary of State. Application fee: $10 (new) or $6 (renewal) to SOS + $11 Circuit Court oath fee.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Maryland requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $91-$161.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 4 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Maryland. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be a resident of the state, or have a place of employment or practice in the State.
Citizenship
No specific citizenship requirement stated
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
RequiredAll new and renewing applicants must complete an SOS-approved notary course and pass an exam (effective since October 1, 2021).
Online courses: Allowed
Exam
RequiredMust pass the exam included with the SOS-approved course.
Administered by: SOS-approved providers
Browse Notary Public study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Surety Bond
Not RequiredNo surety bond required in Maryland.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $10 (new) or $6 (renewal) to SOS + $11 Circuit Court oath fee |
Bond Premium No bond required | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Education Course Varies by approved provider | $50-$100 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + court fee + education + seal | $91-$161 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Complete SOS-approved notary education course and pass exam
Have application approved by your State Senator
Submit application with $10 fee to Secretary of State
After SOS approval, take oath at Circuit Court Clerk within 30 days ($11 fee)
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
4 years
Renewal Process
Must complete education and pass exam again. Submit application with $6 fee.
Renewal Fee
$6 (SOS) + $11 (court)
Regulatory Board
Maryland authorizes remote online notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with Maryland's RON requirements.
What Makes Maryland Unique
Maryland is unique in requiring State Senator endorsement/approval of notary applications.
Maryland uniquely requires State Senator approval of notary applications.
No bond required.
Must take oath within 30 days of SOS approval notification.
Notary requirements in nearby states
| State | Timeline | |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland (you) | 4–17 wks | |
| District of Columbia | 4–17 wks | → |
| Delaware | 4–17 wks | → |
| Pennsylvania | 4–17 wks | → |
| Virginia | 4–17 wks | → |
Other professional licenses in Maryland
See how Maryland compares: Notary License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
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Transfer your Notary license from Maryland to: Delaware → | Pennsylvania → | Virginia → | West Virginia → | District of Columbia →
Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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