As an experienced Notary Public in Maryland, I've come to recognize that the realm of notarization isn't a one-size-fits-all domain. In fact, within the state, there exist distinct tiers of Notary Services, each with its own qualifications, specialties, and responsibilities. Through my years of practice, research, and official confirmations, I've delineated these tiers to help demystify Maryland's Notary landscape.
Entry-Level Notary Public Services:
At the foundational level, we have Entry-Level Notary Public Services. The entry-level Notaries have diligently met all prerequisites outlined in COMAR 01.01.08.09, successfully applied for a Maryland Notary commission, and undergone basic education covering essential laws, regulations, and procedures. Their commissioning involves paying requisite fees and taking the oath of office, granting them the authority to execute General Notary Work. This tier forms the backbone of Maryland's notarization infrastructure, handling a wide array of documents and transactions.
Mid-Level Notary Public Services:
Moving up the ladder, we encounter Mid-Level Notary Public Services, a tier distinguished by specialized certifications and extended training. Notaries in this category may hold certifications such as Loan Signing Agent accreditation from reputable institutions like the National Notary Association, Notary2Pro, Loan Signing System, and ongoing training from platforms like Notary Stars. Additionally, some pursue Specialty Notary Training, such as becoming a Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent (CNTDA), enhancing their expertise in executing critical estate planning documents. These Notaries possess the skills and knowledge to handle complex transactions with precision and professionalism.
Advanced-Level Notary Public Services:
At the apex of Maryland's Notary hierarchy lies the Advanced-Level Notary Public Services. Here, we encounter Maryland Title Insurance Producer Independent Contractors (TIPICs). These individuals undergo rigorous training, pass a proctored examination and obtain their license through the Maryland Insurance Administration. Mandated to perform notarizations on Maryland property closed in Maryland involving title insurance, TIPICs play a pivotal role in ensuring the legality and integrity of real estate transactions. Their specialized expertise is vital in safeguarding the interests of all parties involved in property transactions.
In crafting this classification, I've drawn not only from personal experiences but also from official sources such as the Maryland Secretary of State's office and the Maryland Insurance Administration. It's essential to recognize the nuances within Maryland's Notary Services, as they directly impact the efficiency and legality of various transactions.
While my delineation captures the essence of Maryland's Notary landscape, I invite feedback and discourse on this framework. Whether you agree, disagree, or have additional insights to offer, I welcome constructive dialogue backed by sourced responses. Together, we can foster a deeper understanding of Maryland's Notary Services, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and integrity across the board.
Article by: Felecia B Bass, Notary Public, LSA-TIPIC, CNTDA, RON
White Rose Notary Services LLC
Silver Spring MD
Serving #20901, #20902, #20903, #20904, #20905, #20906, #20910, #20912, #20704, #20705, #20740, #20783, #20866, #20724 and surrounding areas.
Previously published February 26, 2024, on NotaryStars.com ( https://www.notarystars.com/blog/opinion-of-maryland-notary-levels)
Resources:
Maryland Secretary of State: https://sos.maryland.gov/Notary/Pages/default.aspx
Maryland Insurance Administration: https://insurance.maryland.gov/Producer/Pages/default.aspx
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