Do NOT use first initial, middle initial, last name; nicknames are not acceptable, and you cannot use suffix's such as M.D., Ph.D, J.D., and Esq. (Sr. This tool allows Pennsylvania notaries public and prospective notaries public to apply for and renew their notary commissions in an efficient paperless process.To be appointed as a notary public, an individual must: 1. Be at least 18 years old; 2. Meet the requirements. 1. Review the application requirements carefully. To become a notary in Maryland, you must be a Maryland resident, complete a notary application and pay the state filing fee.