How to Become a Notary in Texas

How to Apply to Become a Notary in Texas

If you meet the requirements to become a notary in Texas, you are ready to apply for your notary commission by following the steps below.

Step 1: Order Your Texas Notary Bond & Supplies, and Complete the Notary Application

To become a notary in Texas, you’ll need to secure a $10,000 surety bond, commonly referred to as a notary bond, from a bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters Agency of Texas. This bond protects the public from any financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.

The state of Texas charges a fee for filing a notary application, and you will also need to purchase a notary stamp and record book to carry out your duties. When you visit our Become a Notary page, you will notice that all of our notary packages include the state filing fee, notary bond, notary stamp, and record book. This is to help ensure you don't forget the state-mandated items.

Next, you will need to complete the application. Don't worry—our online application process will guide you through all of the questions and help you avoid any errors. Please note that if you have been found guilty of a crime other than a class C misdemeanor, you will need to include copies of the court order, sentence, and papers pertaining to release from probation, and a statement of the nature, circumstances, date, and location, and whether the case is on appeal. Remember, a conviction for a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony disqualifies you from appointment as a notary public under Texas law.

During the application process, you will be able to confirm the case color of your notary stamp, and will have the option to add notary E&O insurance and other supplies to your order.

Although not required by law, it's wise to invest in notary E&O insurance. Many notaries confuse an E&O policy with the notary bond, yet they are entirely different products. As mentioned above, the notary bond is designed to protect the public. If a claim is made against your bond, you are required to pay it back. Notary E&O insurance is designed to shield the notary from financial liability in the case of any unintentional mistakes or oversights, up to the policy limit. There is no deductible, and you are not required to pay it back. Without this policy, you would be responsible for all fees or expenses related to defending yourself as a notary.

It's also a good idea to become educated on Texas notary public laws and best practices, even though it's not mandated by law. The Secretary of State provides educational materials in accordance with Tex. Gov't Code Ann. §406.008(b) on their website. For a better understanding of the laws and protocols, you should consider taking a notary course, like the one offered by Notary Public Underwriters Agency of Texas. Our course, priced at $25.00, can be conveniently added to your order during the application process.

By taking our course, you will gain a full understanding of a notary’s responsibility in society and the obligation to execute your duties lawfully and ethically. The Texas Notary Course will help you become familiar with the most current notary laws in Texas and fully understand your notarial duties.

Additionally, consider adding the Texas Notary Handbook to your order for $15.25. This handbook serves as a handy reference to notary statutes and administrative rules when you're in the field.

At the end of checkout, your notary application will be available for download and printing. You will need it for the next step.

Step 2: Submit the Application for Appointment as a Texas Notary Public

If you used our online application process, you should have already downloaded the application. If not, you may log in to your account and download the documents from "Notary Application" tab. These documents will include instructions on where to sign and a reminder to include the proper documentation to assist the Secretary of State's Notary Unit in determining your eligibility if you have been convicted of a crime other than a Class C misdemeanor.

For the fastest service, you may scan and email your paperwork to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Once we receive your paperwork, we will review it for accuracy and file it with the state upon confirming that it meets all requirements.

Step 3: Receive Your Certificate and Supplies

We will begin manufacturing your order and ship it within three business days upon notification of approval from the state. Please be aware that your notary certificate will be emailed to you directly from the Secretary of State's Office. You will need to take your notary certificate to another commissioned Texas notary, who will administer the Oath of Office and notarize the document. You are responsible for keeping the notarized certificate on file.

Step 4: Starting Notarizing

Congratulations! You are now a duly commissioned notary public in the state of Texas. You can begin offering your services to the public, whether as an independent notary or as part of your existing profession.

If you have any questions about becoming a notary, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 800.821.0822. We are always happy to assist.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Texas? 

The cost of becoming a notary in Texas is generally inexpensive. The state filing fee is $21, and our 4-year $10,000 notary bond is $50. You will also need to purchase a notary stamp and a record book to carry out your duties. Prices for these items vary depending on the style you prefer. We have created a breakdown of our most popular package for becoming a notary:

 When you break down this total for a 4-year term, that comes to less than $0.12 a day!

 

 

 

Texas Notary Public FAQs 

How Do I Obtain a Notary Bond in Texas?

Visit our Become a Notary page where you will be able to purchase the notary bond and other state-required items. 

Not a new applicant? Visit our Renew Commission page!

Is Training Required to Become a Notary in Texas?

Training is not required to become a notary in Texas, but the Secretary of State does provide educational materials on their website. 

Notary Public Underwriters Agency of Texas also offers a notary course that provides background of information to help you to become a confident and successful Texas notary. This course is accessible 24/7  and can be completed at your own pace in the convenience of your home or office. 

Alternatively, you may want to consider purchasing the Texas Notary Handbook. This helpful manual will teach you the nature and purpose of your notarial duties and how to perform them with skill and confidence in accordance with Texas notary statutes and administrative rules.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary in Texas?

The timeframe to become a notary in Texas varies based on how quickly we receive your paperwork and the processing time at the Secretary of State. The process can be completed in as little as a two weeks or can take as long as six weeks.

What Should I Do if I Move or My Name Changes?

You must notify the Secretary of State of any address change within ten (10) days of the change. You can complete the Notary Public Change of Address form or send a letter with your name, social security number, old address, and new address to: Secretary of State, Notary Public Unit, P.O. Box 13375, Austin, TX 78711-3375. You may also file your change of address online. Failure to update your address may result in the revocation of your commission if you do not respond to a complaint or request for information.

If you recently changed your name, you may change the name on your commission by submitting a name change application (Form 2305) to the Secretary of State, along with your certificate of commission, a rider or endorsement from the insurance agency or surety reflecting the name change, and a $20 filing fee. If you are bonded through Notary Public Underwriters Agency of Texas, please contact us for information on obtaining the rider. The state of Texas does not require notaries to change their name on their commission before their current commission expires.

How Much Can a Notary Charge for Notarial Acts?

Texas notaries may charge up to $10 for most common notarial acts. This fee limit is subject to review by the Secretary of State every five years. Notaries have the option to charge less than the maximum or provide their services free of charge.

How Long Does a Texas Notary Commission Last? 

Each notary public commission lasts for a period of four years. In order to continue to be a notary, you will need to renew your commission.

How Do I Renew My Notary Commission in Texas?

To renew your commission, you will need to meet the same requirements, obtain a notary bond and supplies, and reapply. Avoid waiting until the last minute and renew at least 90 days before your current commission expires to avoid any potential delays.