So you’d like to Become a Notary in Baltimore, Maryland? Look no further! It’s important to know the laws and regulations in your state if you’d like to be a notary public, and that’s where we can help!
In order to become a notary in Maryland you must:
- be at least 18 years old
- be of good character, integrity and abilities, and
- live or work in the State of Maryland.
Now on to the good stuff. First you should carefully read and review the Duties & Responsibilities of a Notary Public in Maryland and the Notary Manual. These documents will not only prepare you for being a notary in Maryland, but they’ll also serve as a useful resource during your commission.
Next, you’ll need to obtain and fill out an application form. Be clear and concise on your application and be sure to fill in all fields – including references as you’ll need these later on. After completing the form, mail it and an $20.00 non-refundable processing fee (made payable to the Secretary of State), to:
Notary Division
Office of the Secretary of State
State House,
Annapolis MD 21401.
Hint: For Baltimore County, you will need to have your legislative district, election district, precinct number, and the name of your State Senator. The information above can be found by visiting this link.
After you have mailed in your application and fee, it will be reviewed by your state senator. He or she will review it and contact the references on your application and either approve or deny the application based on them.
When your application is approved, the Office of the Secretary of State will send your commission to the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where you wish to work as notary. You will be notified by postcard that your commission is approved and will receive instructions to take the oath of office at the Clerk of the Circuit Court. There is an $11.00 fee for this. You must be commissioned at the Clerk’s Office within 30 days of being notified or your commission will be revoked.
You’ll also need to purchase your own supplies: an official Maryland Notary Seal, along with a Maryland Notary Journal (to record the details of your position, including name, addresses, dates, services and fees, if any). These items are available for purchase at most office supply stores and many online stores as well. A simple search for “Notary Supplies” in your favorite search engine or Baltimore Yellow Pages should do the trick.
Voila! If you’ve followed the above steps you are officially a notary in Baltimore, Maryland! Congratulations! Be sure to come back and let us know how it went. We always love hearing success stories!
Don't forget to setup your free public profile on NotaryCRM.