Notary Public Permit Requirements in Baltimore, MD

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.

   Official government source for EIN (Employer Identification Number) (opens in a new tab)

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Maryland Notary Public Commission

   Apply through the Maryland Secretary of State for a 4-year notary commission. Applicants must be 18+, meet residency/employment requirements, complete a course of study and pass an examination, and take the oath of office before the Clerk of the Circuit Court within 30 days of approval.

   Official government source for Maryland Notary Public Commission (opens in a new tab)

   $25 application fee (Secretary of State) + $11 Clerk of Court fee at oath·4–6 weeks

   $25 application fee (Secretary of State) + $11 Clerk of Court fee at oath

   4–6 weeks

2. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

   While not required in Maryland, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.

   $40–$80/year·Immediate

   $40–$80/year

   Immediate

1. Baltimore Business License (if operating a notary business)

   Baltimore City has no general business license; a standalone notary business needs no city business license. Maryland notaries must hold a commission from the Maryland Secretary of State.

   Official government source for Baltimore Business License (if operating a notary business) (opens in a new tab)

   $0 city licensing; state notary commission fees apply (see sos.maryland.gov)·1–3 weeks

   $0 city licensing; state notary commission fees apply (see sos.maryland.gov)

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Maryland — Notary Public Requirements
• Maryland Secretary of State

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