MD Notary MD Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements 3

Question 1

A Maryland notary's seal impression fades over time and becomes difficult to read. What should the notary do?

Accepted Answer

Replace the stamp or re-ink it so impressions remain clearly legible

Answer

Maryland's legibility requirement means a notary must maintain a stamp that consistently produces clear, readable impressions.

Question 2

Under Maryland law, who is responsible for the security of the notary's official seal?

Accepted Answer

The notary personally

Answer

The individual notary is solely responsible for the safekeeping and security of their official seal.

Question 3

If a Maryland notary becomes deceased, what should happen to their official seal?

Accepted Answer

The personal representative or estate should destroy or disable the seal

Answer

Upon a notary's death, the personal representative should destroy or disable the seal to prevent unauthorized use.

Question 4

A notary's seal reads 'John A. Smith, Notary Public, Maryland.' The notary's legal commissioned name is 'John Allen Smith.' Is the seal compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the Secretary of State issued the commission to 'John A. Smith'

Answer

The seal must reflect the name as it appears on the notary's commission; if the commission says 'John A. Smith,' the seal is compliant.

Question 5

Which document does a Maryland notary NOT need to affix their seal to?

Accepted Answer

An oral oath or affirmation administered without a written record

Answer

When a notary administers an oral oath or affirmation that produces no written record, there is no document on which to affix a seal.

MD Notary - Maryland Notary Exam Practice Test