Becoming a notary public in Texas is a rewarding way to serve your community while building a flexible and potentially lucrative side business. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or add notary services to your existing profession, understanding the process and requirements is essential to get commissioned smoothly and legally. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know to become a Texas notary in 2025.
Eligibility Requirements: Are You Qualified?
Before you begin the application process, make sure you meet Texas’s eligibility criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: Be a legal resident of Texas. (Escrow agents residing in neighboring states may also qualify.)
- Criminal Background: You cannot have a final conviction for a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude, such as fraud, theft, or dishonesty.
- Legal Capacity: You must be legally competent to perform your duties.
If you meet these requirements, you’re ready to move forward.
Step 1: Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
Texas law requires every notary public to secure a four-year $10,000 surety bond. This bond protects the public from any financial harm caused by errors or misconduct during notarizations. While the bond amount is fixed, the cost to purchase it varies by provider, typically around $50.
You can buy your bond through insurance companies or specialized notary bond providers. Many vendors offer bundles that include your bond, notary seal, and journal, helping you get started quickly and affordably.
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Application Online
Starting in January 2025, the Texas Secretary of State requires all notary applications to be submitted electronically via their official online portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted.
To complete your application, you will need to:
- Fill out the online application form with your personal and contact information.
- Upload proof of your $10,000 surety bond.
- Pay the $21 application filing fee via credit card or electronic payment.
Many bond providers offer services to file your application electronically on your behalf, reducing errors and speeding up processing.
Step 3: Receive Your Commission Certificate
Once your application is approved, typically within 5 to 10 business days, you will receive your official notary commission certificate via email from the Texas Secretary of State. This certificate is your legal authorization to perform notarial acts in Texas.
Step 4: Take Your Oath of Office
Before you can begin notarizing, Texas law requires you to take an oath of office. This must be done in the presence of another commissioned Texas notary public. You cannot notarize your own oath.
The oath affirms your commitment to uphold the laws and ethical standards governing notaries in Texas.
Step 5: Purchase Your Notary Supplies
To perform your duties, you’ll need the following official supplies:
- Notary Seal: A stamp or embosser that includes your name, the words “Notary Public, State of Texas,” and your commission expiration date.
- Notary Journal: Texas law requires you to keep a detailed journal of all notarial acts, including dates, types of acts, signer information, and fees charged.
- Fee Schedule: While optional, posting a fee schedule for clients helps maintain transparency.
Notary supply companies often sell these items individually or in convenient starter kits.
Step 6: Understand Your Responsibilities and Begin Notarizing
As a Texas notary, your role is to serve as an impartial witness to prevent fraud and ensure the authenticity of signatures. Key responsibilities include:
- Verifying Signer Identity: Confirm the signer’s identity through valid government-issued photo ID or personal knowledge.
- Ensuring Willingness and Awareness: Make sure signers understand the document and are signing voluntarily.
- Maintaining Records: Keep accurate journal entries for every notarization.
- Following Legal Restrictions: Do not notarize incomplete documents, provide legal advice, or certify copies of vital records.
Your commission lasts four years, after which you must renew if you wish to continue.
Costs to Expect
Expense | Typical Cost |
Surety Bond | $50 |
Application Fee | $21 |
Notary Seal | $30 |
Notary Journal | $30–$55 |
Fee Schedule | $17 (optional) |
Total | $148–$173 |
Tips for Success as a Texas Notary
- Stay Informed: Laws and best practices can change. Regularly check the Texas Secretary of State website and trusted notary resources.
- Maintain Professionalism: Always act impartially and ethically to build trust and avoid liability.
- Consider Remote Online Notarization (RON): Texas allows RON for certain documents. If interested, seek additional training and certification to expand your services.
- Keep Your Journal Secure: Your journal is a legal record—store it safely and never share it with unauthorized persons.
Ready to Become a Texas Notary?
Starting your notary career in Texas is easier than ever with the right guidance. At Notary2Notary.com, we provide step-by-step training, expert advice, and resources tailored to help you succeed. From application tips to marketing your notary services, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Take the first step today — visit Notary2Notary.com and start your journey to becoming a commissioned Texas notary public!
Becoming a Texas notary opens doors to flexible income opportunities and community service. Follow these steps carefully, stay committed to ethical standards, and you’ll be on your way to a successful notary career in 2025 and beyond.