MD Notary MD Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements 2

Question 1

May a Maryland notary use a pre-inked stamp instead of a traditional embossed seal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pre-inked stamps are acceptable in Maryland

Answer

No, only embossed seals are recognized

Answer

Only for real estate documents

Answer

Only if approved by the Secretary of State

Question 2

A notary discovers their stamp has been stolen. What is the immediate required action in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Notify the Secretary of State and, if appropriate, file a police report

Answer

Order a replacement stamp and continue working without reporting

Answer

Notify only their employer

Answer

Post a public notice in a local newspaper

Question 3

Which statement about the Maryland notary seal is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

The seal must produce a legible impression that can be photocopied or scanned

Answer

The seal impression must be raised (embossed) to be valid

Answer

The notary's commission expiration date must appear on the seal

Answer

The seal must be registered with the county clerk

Question 4

Can a Maryland notary's official seal include optional information beyond what is legally required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, additional information such as the commission expiration date may be included

Answer

No, only legally required text is permitted on the seal

Answer

Only the commission number may be added

Answer

Only the county name may be added

Question 5

Which of the following would DISQUALIFY a Maryland notary seal from being used on a document?

Accepted Answer

A seal impression that is partially illegible

Answer

A seal with an optional commission number included

Answer

A rectangular seal shape

Answer

A pre-inked stamp in black ink

Question 6

After a Maryland notary changes their name, what must they do regarding their seal before performing further notarial acts?

Accepted Answer

Obtain a new commission and seal reflecting the updated name before notarizing

Answer

Continue using the old seal with a written name correction on each document

Answer

Notify the Secretary of State by letter and continue using the existing seal

Answer

Purchase a new seal immediately without waiting for commission update