How to Become a Notary in Maryland (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Maryland notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Maryland state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Maryland — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Maryland, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Maryland or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Complete the required education course
Maryland requires you to complete a state-approved notary education course before applying. Courses are available from approved providers and can typically be completed online. Fees vary by provider, usually $20–$80.
Pass the notary exam
Maryland requires all applicants to pass a written notary exam. Schedule your exam through the state or an approved testing provider. Study the Maryland notary handbook — available free from the Secretary of State.
Submit your application to the Secretary of State
File your completed notary application with the Secretary of State and pay the $21 application fee. Include your certificate of course completion. Include your exam pass certificate. Most states now accept online applications.
Receive your commission and take your oath of office
After your application is approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You must then take an official oath of office — typically before a notary public, judge, or court clerk — within 30–90 days. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Purchase your notary supplies
Order your official Maryland notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Secretary of State requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Maryland: $45.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Maryland. Traditional notary fees in Maryland: up to $8 per act (state-capped). Maryland also allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), capped at $30 per act — a growing income opportunity. For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Maryland Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Maryland. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Maryland Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $21 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Surety bond | Not required |
| Exam | Required |
| Education course | Required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$45 |
| Filing office | Secretary of State |
| RON available | Yes |
| Est. total startup cost | $66–$146 |
State fee: $10 (new) or $6 (renewal) + $11 clerk of court fee at qualification. Approved education course and exam required for all new and renewing applicants.
Source: Secretary of State — Official Maryland Notary Page ↗
What Can a Maryland Notary Charge?
Maryland caps notary fees at $8 per notarial act. Remote online notarizations are capped at $30. $8 per act in-person; $30 for RON. Mileage-based travel fees are allowed.
Source: Maryland Notary Fee Authority ↗
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Maryland Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Maryland notary commission, you can earn serious income as a signing agent at real estate loan closings. Loan Signing System teaches you how to find clients and run a full signing business.
Explore Notary Signing Agent Training →