Notary Public Bond in Maryland

What this bond requires in Maryland

Maryland notaries are not required to post or maintain a surety bond. Commissions run for four years and are issued by the Maryland Secretary of State under State Government Article § 18-101 et seq. and COMAR 01.02.08. After Senate approval, the notary must take the oath of office before the Clerk of Court of their county of residence within 30 days.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the Maryland Secretary of State, Notary Division under Md. Code, State Government Article, § 18-101 et seq.; COMAR 01.02.08.

How to file in Maryland

Applicant files an online application through the Maryland Secretary of State Notary Division (egov.maryland.gov/sos/notary) with the state filing fee. The local Senator office reviews and forwards the recommendation, then the Secretary of State issues the commission. The new notary must qualify by taking the oath before the Clerk of Court of their county of residence within 30 days; no bond is required.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in Maryland?

Maryland does not require a surety bond for notaries public.

How much is the bond in Maryland?

Maryland does not publish a single flat amount. See the state-specific notes for how it is determined.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Maryland Secretary of State, Notary Division.

How is the bond filed?

Applicant files an online application through the Maryland Secretary of State Notary Division (egov.maryland.gov/sos/notary) with the state filing fee. The local Senator office reviews and forwards the recommendation, then the Secretary of State issues the commission. The new notary must qualify by taking the oath before the Clerk of Court of their county of residence within 30 days; no bond is required.

What does the bond cover?

Surety bonds protect the obligee, not the principal. If you fail to meet the obligation the bond guarantees, the surety pays the claim and recovers from you.

Is a surety bond the same as insurance?

No. Insurance protects you. A surety bond protects whoever required the bond. You repay the surety for any claim they pay.