MD Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements Flashcards

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

Answer: Yes, pre-inked stamps are acceptable in Maryland

Maryland law accepts pre-inked rubber stamps as valid notary seals as long as they contain the required information and are legible.

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

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

Maryland notaries must notify the Secretary of State promptly when their seal or stamp is lost or stolen.

Which statement about the Maryland notary seal is TRUE?

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

Maryland requires that the seal impression be legible, including in photocopied or scanned reproductions of the document.

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

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

Maryland allows notaries to include optional information on the seal, such as the commission expiration date, in addition to required elements.

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

Answer: A seal impression that is partially illegible

A partially illegible seal does not meet Maryland's requirement for a clear, legible impression and could invalidate the notarial act.

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

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

A notary must obtain an updated commission in their new name and a new seal before performing further notarial acts.