If you want to become a Notary in Maine, complete the following steps:
- Meet all of your state's qualifications.
- Complete the application.
- Take the open-book exam.
- Receive your Certificate of Qualification in the mail.
- Appear before a Dedimus Justice to take your oath of office.
- Return the completed certificate to the Secretary of State.
About the Maine Notary Process
The term of a Maine Notary commission is seven years. Here is some more information about the process of becoming an ME Notary Public.
Cost to Become an ME Notary
The cost to become a Notary in Maine is approximately $50. The final cost will depend on the fee the Dedimus Justice sets for the oath of office.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Commission fee |
$50 |
| Dedimus Justice fee |
Varies |
| Total Cost |
$50 |
Commission Processing Length
It can take 15-20 business days for the Secretary of State to process your Notary application.
Maine Notary Public Requirements
Wondering what it takes to be a Notary in the Pine Tree State? Read on below.
Eligibility
A Notary Public applicant in Maine must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Maine or have a place of employment or practice in Maine
- Demonstrate proficiency in English
- Not have had a Notary commission revoked or suspended for official misconduct in Maine or any other jurisdiction in the past five years prior to application
- Not have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for one year or more, or of a lesser offense incompatible with the duties of a Notary, in the past 10 years prior to application
Application
Print and complete the Application for a Notary Public Commission form. Submit the application and $50 commission fee payable to the Treasurer, State of Maine.
Exam
Applicants for a Notary commission in Maine must pass an exam. The open-book test is included with the application form.
Dedimus Justice
Receive your Certificate of Qualification in the mail from the state. Within 30 days of receipt, appear before a Dedimus Justice to take your oath of office.
Dedimus Justices can be located on the Secretary of State's website or in the "Maine Register" in most town offices and libraries.
You have 45 days to return the completed certificate to the Secretary of State.
Maine Notary Public FAQs
Have more questions about being an ME Notary? We have your answers.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Maine Department of the Secretary of State, Notary Public Section, located in Augusta, ME, is responsible for issuing Notary Public commissions.
What kind of training will I need?
Completing a training course is not required to apply for a Maine Notary commission, but the Secretary of State does offer an optional training course that covers what will be on the exam.
For further education, the NNA also provides Notary training courses that cover the basics of performing notarial acts and more.
What supplies do I need?
A Notary stamp and journal are optional for Maine Notaries performing in-person paper notarizations, but they’re strongly recommended. These supplies are only required when notarizing electronic records.
If you’re planning to perform electronic or remote notarizations in Maine, check out this guide.
Do Maine Notaries need a surety bond?
A surety bond is not required to become a Notary in Maine.
You may protect yourself against possible legal costs or damages by purchasing an errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. An E&O policy covers your legal fees and damages up to the amount of the policy with no need to reimburse the insurance company.
May I become a Maine Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become a Maine Notary Public. You must, however, meet all other application requirements.
Where will I be able to notarize?
A Maine Notary may perform notarial acts anywhere within the state's borders.
Can Maine Notaries perform weddings?
Notaries in Maine may not perform marriages as a notarial act. However, the state automatically issues a wedding officiant license unless they chose to opt out.
Keeping a record of any marriages performed is required.
Who can I notarize for?
Any member of the public, as long as the request meets all statutory requirements for notarization, excluding yourself, your in-laws, and step or half relatives. You may not notarize any documents in which you have a financial gain or beneficial interest.
Unless you're solemnizing a marriage, you're prohibited from notarizing for a spouse, domestic partner, parent, sibling, child, spouse's parent, spouse's sibling, spouse's child or child's spouse.
How much can Maine Notaries charge for their services?
Maine Notaries may charge a reasonable fee per notarial act. The state strongly recommends informing signers of your fees in advance to avoid any confusion.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
Any changes to your address or name must be reported to the Secretary of State within 30 days of the change. You may update your information at any time free of charge through the Secretary of State's website.
For name changes, complete the Notice of Change in Notarial Signature form and submit it to the Secretary of State. A new Certificate of Commission will be issued.
If you use an ink seal or embosser, replace it with a new one bearing your new name.
What is the process to renew my commission as a Maine Notary?
The process to renew your Maine Notary Public commission involves meeting the qualifications to become a Maine Notary, completing the online renewal process, taking the 30-question exam, and paying the $50 renewal application fee.
Once the process is complete, you will be provided with the Certificate of Qualification and additional instructions to download. You must:
- Have the municipal clerk or registrar of voters validate the application for residency.
- Have the form notarized.
- Appear before a Dedimus Justice to take the oath of office.
- Return the application and Certificate of Qualification (oath of office) to the Secretary of State's office by the deadline.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Maine?
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Last updated: Sep 9, 2025