How to Become a Notary Public in Texas

This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria you need to get started.

Follow these essential steps to become a Notary Public in Texas:

Ensure You Meet Eligibility Requirements: Verify that you meet the age, residency, and criminal record criteria outlined by the state.
Secure a $10,000 Surety Bond: Obtain the mandatory bond to protect the public from errors or misconduct in your notarial duties.
Fill Out and Submit Your Application: Complete the notary application form accurately and submit it through the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
Obtain Your Commission Certificate: Once approved, you will receive your official notary commission certificate.
Take the Oath of Office: Administer your oath of office as required to activate your commission.
Purchase Essential Notary Supplies: Acquire a notary seal or stamp, a journal for recordkeeping, and a fee schedule to document and standardize your charges.

Ready to get started?

Become a Texas Notary public today!

Understanding the Texas Notary Process

A Texas Notary commission is valid for a four-year term. Below, you’ll find detailed information about the steps involved in the Notary Public application process..

Expenses Associated with Becoming a Texas Notary

The total cost to become a Notary in Texas typically falls between $148 and $173. This range depends on the provider you choose for your surety bond and essential Notary supplies.

Expense	Cost
$10,000 Surety Bond	$50
Application Filing Fee	$21
Notary Seal	$30
Notary Journal	$30 - $55
Fee Schedule	$17
Total Cost	$148 - $173

Texas Commission Processing Time

Once you have submitted your application, the processing time for receiving your commission certificate will depend on the submission method. If you emailed your application, you can expect to receive your certificate within about two weeks. For applications sent by mail, the processing time is approximately 30 days.

Texas Notary Public Requirements

Eligibility to Become a Texas Notary

Are you wondering what it takes to become a Notary Public in the Lone Star State? Texas has straightforward requirements for aspiring notaries. Below, we break down the qualifications, application process, and everything you need to know to get started.

To qualify as a Notary Public in Texas, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age Requirement: Be at least 18 years old.
Residency: Be a legal resident of Texas.
Criminal Record: Have no felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude that have not been dismissed or legally discharged.

Special Note for Escrow Agents

Escrow agents who are residents of states neighboring Texas (such as Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, or New Mexico) may qualify to become Texas Notaries without meeting the state residency requirement.

Application Process to Become a Texas Notary

Once you confirm your eligibility, the next step is to apply. Here’s how:

Complete the Notary Application Form
- Access the official application form through the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
Secure a $10,000 Surety Bond
- Texas law requires every notary to hold a $10,000 surety bond to protect the public against potential errors or misconduct.
Submit Your Application
- Send your completed application, proof of your surety bond, and the applicable filing fee to the Texas Secretary of State.
- The current filing fee for a notary application in Texas is $21.
Await Approval
- Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate, which is valid for four years.

Texas Notary Supplies: What You Need to Know

As a Notary Public in Texas, having the correct supplies is essential to performing your duties accurately and in compliance with state laws. Texas notaries are required to use an official Notary seal and maintain a journal to record all notarial acts. Additionally, notaries must post a fee schedule to inform clients of service charges.

Texas Notary Seal Requirements

Your official Notary seal may take the form of an inked stamp or an embosser. It must adhere to specific size and design regulations as outlined by Texas law:

Shape and Size:
- Circular seals: No larger than 2 inches in diameter.
- Rectangular seals: No larger than 1 inch by 2.5 inches.
Required Design Elements:
- The seal must have a milled-edge or serrated border.
- The words “Notary Public, State of Texas” must appear encircling the seal.
- A five-pointed star must be prominently displayed within the design.
- Your name exactly as it appears on your notary commission.
- Your unique Notary ID number issued by the state.
- Your commission expiration date to ensure validity.

Notary Journal Requirements

Maintaining a notary journal is a critical requirement for Texas notaries. The journal serves as a record of all notarial acts performed, protecting both the notary and the public by ensuring transparency and accountability.

Key details to include in your journal:

Date and time of the notarial act.
Type of notarization performed.
Document type (e.g., affidavit, deed, power of attorney).
Name and address of the signer.
Identification method (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
Fees charged (if any).
Signer’s signature.

Posting a Fee Schedule

To ensure clarity and compliance with Texas regulations, notaries must display a fee schedule outlining the maximum charges for their services. Texas law permits notaries to charge up to $6 per notarial act, with additional fees for travel allowed under specific circumstances.

Optional Notary Supplies

While not required, the following supplies can enhance your efficiency as a notary:

Thumbprint Pad: For added security when notarizing sensitive documents.
Acknowledgment and Jurat Forms: Pre-printed forms save time and ensure compliance with Texas standards.
Notary Errors and Omissions Insurance: Provides protection in case of accidental errors.

Equipping yourself with the proper supplies ensures you can fulfill your role as a Texas Notary Public with professionalism and compliance. Always verify that your tools meet state regulations to avoid any disruptions in your notarial duties.

Surety Bond for Texas Notaries

To become a Texas Notary, applicants are legally required to secure a $10,000 surety bond from a company authorized to operate within Texas. This bond is a critical step in the notary application process.

The surety bond must meet the following criteria:

Approval by the Secretary of State: The bond must be submitted to and approved by the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
Payable to the Governor: The bond is issued in favor of the Governor of Texas and conditioned to provide financial protection.
Coverage for Damages: It ensures reimbursement to individuals harmed by a Notary’s improper performance of official duties, as outlined in Texas Government Code, Section 406.010.
To become a Texas Notary, applicants are legally required to secure a $10,000 surety bond from a company authorized to operate within Texas. This bond is a critical step in the notary application process.
The surety bond must meet the following criteria:
- Approval by the Secretary of State: The bond must be submitted to and approved by the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
- Payable to the Governor: The bond is issued in favor of the Governor of Texas and conditioned to provide financial protection.
- Coverage for Damages: It ensures reimbursement to individuals harmed by a Notary’s improper performance of official duties, as outlined in Texas Government Code, Section 406.010.

Exceptions for State Employees

Notaries who primarily perform notarial acts as officers or employees of Texas state agencies are exempt from the surety bond requirement. This exemption helps streamline the process for government-affiliated notaries.

Securing a $10,000 surety bond is essential for protecting both notaries and the public while ensuring compliance with Texas notary laws.

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Texas is a valuable opportunity to serve your community, enhance your professional skills, and earn additional income.

By completing the necessary steps—filing your application, obtaining your bond, and securing the required supplies—you’ll be equipped to take on the responsibilities of a Notary with confidence.

With thorough preparation and a commitment to accuracy, you can begin your notarial journey and build a fulfilling career in this trusted role.