The Maryland Notary Training Course & Exam Certification covers the laws, procedures, and best practices required to become a Maryland Notary Public. Designed for new applicants, the course prepares you to meet the state's education requirement and apply for your commission through the Secretary of State.
Who Should Enroll
The Notary Public course is designed for individuals applying to become a Notary in Maryland who need to complete the state's required education and pass the Notary exam.
What You'll Learn
Lesson 1 – Becoming a Maryland Notary
- Understand the role of a Maryland Notary Public
- Review the qualifications to become a Maryland Notary
- Learn how to complete the application and commissioning process
- Understand your four-year commission and authority
- Master the duties of an impartial public official
- Know when to refuse a notarization
- Renew your commission and maintain compliance
Lesson 2 – The 5-Step Notarization Process
- Master the five-step notarization process
- Learn how to review documents before performing a notarization
- Master signer identity verification using approved methods
- Gain the skills to screen signers for willingness and awareness
- Review Maryland's required notarial acts
- Know how to record compliant journal entries
- Walk through the process of completing notarial certificates
Lesson 3 – Specific Notarial Acts
- Learn how to perform Maryland's most common notarial acts
- Know how to complete acknowledgments for all signer types
- Master administering oaths, affirmations, and jurats
- Understand how to complete certificates for each notarial act
- Get tips on certifying copies of eligible documents
- Learn how to witness signatures using proper procedures
- Learn to navigate specialized notarial acts
Lesson 4 – Special Circumstances
- Master notarizing for signers with physical limitations
- Get tips on handling foreign-language documents correctly
- Learn how to manage changes to your Notary commission
- Explore Maryland's administrative requirements
- Know how to apply Maryland's fee and travel rules
- Learn how to advertise your services within the law
- Learn which changes must be reported to the Secretary of State
Lesson 5 – Remote Notarization
- Understand Maryland's remote notarization options
- Learn how to become authorized to perform remote notarizations
- Get tips for setting up your remote notarization tools
- Master the five-step remote notarization process
- Learn to verify signer identity using remote technology
- Become familiar with maintaining compliant electronic records
- Know how to secure your electronic signature and seal
Lesson 6 – Notary Misconduct
- Discover which acts are prohibited under Maryland law
- Learn how to avoid the unauthorized practice of law
- Understand the consequences of Notary misconduct
- Learn to apply reasonable care to prevent mistakes
- Explore how E&O insurance can protect you
- Review employer and personal liability
- Get tips for passing the Maryland Notary exam
Exam Details
Complete the 20-question Maryland Notary exam in 30 minutes. A score of 80% or higher is required to pass, and you may retake the exam if needed.
Once you pass, you'll receive your Certificate of Passing and Certificate of Completion by email. Submit both certificates with your Maryland Notary application.