Notary Public Commission

Applying for a Notary Public / Authentication of Notary Public

How do I apply to become a Notary Public?

Applications for Notary Public Commission can be obtained from the Secretary of State in Annapolis, Maryland or you may download the application at the Secretary of State's web site.

Once the application has been submitted and approved, you will be notified to appear before the Clerk of the Circuit Court at the 9250 Judicial Way, Suite 1900, Ellicott City, MD 21043 to take the oath of office and receive your Notary Commission. There is an $11.00 fee payable to the Clerk of the Circuit Court at the time you take the oath of office. For more information on becoming a notary public, please visit the Secretary of State's web site.

Where do I get Commissioned?

You must be commissioned at the Clerk's Office within 30 days of being notified. If you are not commissioned within the 30 day period, your commission is revoked. If you do not receive a postcard but were notified by your State Senator that your application has been approved, please contact Land Records/Licensing Department at 410-313-5850.

How do I get an Authentication of a Notary Public?

Authentication may be obtained in person or by mail at 9250 Judicial Way, Suite 1900, Ellicott City, MD 21043. The Clerk of the Circuit Court for Howard County authenticates a Notary Public from Howard County only. The fee is $1.00 per authentication. Checks should be made payable to the Clerk of the Circuit Court.

For further questions, please contact the Land Records/License Department at 410-313-5850.

Please note that the Clerk's Office for Howard County does not have a notary public to notarize documents.