How to Become a Notary in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Everything really is bigger in Texas — and that includes the demand for notaries public. Whether you're looking to add a professional credential to your resume, support your local community, or build a side hustle serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex or the Houston business district, becoming a notary in Texas is one of the most accessible paths you can take. The Texas Secretary of State keeps the process refreshingly simple compared to plenty of other states, and you don't need to jump through hoops like mandatory training courses or expensive exams. Here's exactly how to get it done.

Disclaimer: Notary laws change periodically. Always verify current requirements with the Texas Secretary of State's office before applying. This article does not constitute legal advice.

Who Can Become a Notary in Texas?

Before you get too far ahead of yourself, make sure you meet the baseline qualifications. Texas keeps this part straightforward:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of Texas (or a resident of a bordering state who is employed in Texas — this is a nice perk if you live in Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, or New Mexico but work in Texas)
Have no felony convictions unless pardoned

That last point tends to generate the most questions. If you have a felony conviction on your record, you're not automatically disqualified — but you do need a full pardon. Misdemeanors generally don't prevent you from becoming a notary in Texas, though certain fraud-related offenses could complicate things. When in doubt, reach out to the Secretary of State's office directly for clarification on your specific situation.

One thing Texas does not require that surprises some applicants: you don't need to be a U.S. citizen. Legal residency in the state is what matters.

Step 1: Complete the Application

Your first real action item is filling out the notary public application from the Texas Secretary of State. The form asks for your personal information, a description of the county where you'll be commissioned, and your signature.

Pro tip: When choosing your commission county, think about where you'll actually be performing most of your notarizations. While your commission is valid statewide (more on that below), your bond and record are filed in a specific county, and that's where you'll take your oath. Most people simply choose the county where they live.

The application itself isn't complicated, but take your time filling it out. Errors or incomplete information can slow down processing, and nobody wants to wait longer than necessary. Double-check your name — it should match your government-issued ID exactly, since that's what you'll be using to verify your identity during notarizations.

Step 2: Get Your Surety Bond

Here's where some new notaries get a little confused. A surety bond is not insurance that protects you. It protects the public from any errors you might make during your commission. If someone suffers a financial loss because of a mistake you made as a notary, they can file a claim against your bond.

Texas requires a $10,000 surety bond, and you'll need this in hand before you submit your application. The good news is that this doesn't cost $10,000. Bond costs typically range from $25 to $50 for a four-year term, depending on the provider you go through. Many notary supply companies bundle the bond with your stamp and journal, which can save you a few bucks and simplify the process.

Shop around a little — prices do vary between providers, and there's no reason to overpay for something this standardized.

Step 3: Submit and Pay Fees

Once you've got your completed application and your surety bond ready to go, it's time to submit everything to the Secretary of State along with your $21 filing fee.

Yes, you read that right — just $21. Texas keeps this cost remarkably low compared to states that charge $60, $100, or more. It's one of the reasons Texas is consistently ranked as one of the easiest and cheapest states to become a notary in.

You can submit your application by mail or electronically, depending on what's most convenient for you. Processing typically takes a few weeks, so don't wait until the last minute if you have time-sensitive notarization needs coming up. If you're in a rush, double-check current processing times on the Secretary of State's website before you apply.

Step 4: Receive Your Commission

Once approved, you'll receive your commission certificate. This is valid for four years from the date of issuance. Your commission certificate is an important document — you'll need it to order your notary stamp, and some employers or clients may ask to see it as proof of your active status.

Keep your commission certificate in a safe place. If you lose it, you'll need to request a duplicate from the Secretary of State, which adds unnecessary hassle to your life.

When your commission packet arrives, it will include instructions for taking your oath of office before a notary public (yes, a notary gets notarized — it's a fun bit of bureaucratic irony). You'll also need to file your commission with the county clerk in the county where you were commissioned. Don't skip this step — it's required, and your commission isn't fully active until it's on file locally.

Step 5: Get Your Notary Supplies

With your commission in hand, you're ready to order your supplies. At minimum, you need two things:

A notary stamp (also called a seal) — This must include your name exactly as it appears on your commission, the words "Notary Public, State of Texas," your commission expiration date, and your commission number. Texas law requires your stamp to use ink that can be photographically reproduced, so stick with black or dark blue ink.
A notary journal — Texas requires notaries to maintain a journal of all notarial acts. This is non-negotiable. Your journal should include the date of each notarization, the type of act performed, the name and signature of each signer, and a description of the document. A well-maintained journal is your best defense if a notarization is ever questioned.

While Texas law doesn't specify the exact format your journal must take, a bound journal with sequentially numbered pages is widely considered the best option. Pre-printed notary journals designed for Texas notaries are affordable and make it easy to record everything correctly.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Texas

Texas was actually one of the early adopters of remote online notarization, and RON is fully operational in the state. If you're interested in notarizing documents electronically for clients who can't meet in person, you'll need to complete additional steps beyond your traditional commission, including using an approved technology provider and maintaining a separate electronic journal. RON can significantly expand the range of services you offer, especially if you serve clients across a wide geographic area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a Texas notary commission valid?

Four years from the date of issuance. You can renew your commission by going through a similar process before your current one expires. The state will typically send you a renewal reminder, but don't rely on that alone — mark your calendar so you don't accidentally let your commission lapse.

Do I need to take a training course?

Texas does not require a training course, though it is highly recommended. The state provides a notary public handbook on the Secretary of State's website that covers the rules, best practices, and common pitfalls. Spending an hour or two reading through it can save you from costly mistakes later. Many new notaries also find that a third-party course helps them feel more confident before their first real notarization.

Can I notarize documents in any Texas county?

Yes, your commission is valid statewide. A notary commissioned in El Paso can legally notarize documents in Houston, Austin, or anywhere else in Texas. That said, most notaries do the majority of their work in their home county simply for convenience.

How much can I charge for a notarization in Texas?

Texas sets maximum fees that notaries can charge — $6 for most standard notarizations, with higher fees allowed for specific acts like protesting bills of exchange. You can charge less (including free notarizations), but you cannot charge more than the statutory maximum. If you're doing mobile notary work, you can also charge a travel fee as long as it's agreed upon in advance with the signer.

What happens if my notary stamp is lost or stolen?

You need to notify the Secretary of State in writing as soon as possible. You should also inform your bonding company. Using a stamp that's been reported lost or stolen — or failing to report it — can put your commission at risk. Order a replacement stamp with the same information as your original, and make sure to destroy any old stamps once your new one arrives.

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Ready for the next step?

Notary Signing Agent Academy — loan signing agents in Texas earn $75–$200 per appointment. The most comprehensive training available.

RON Pro: Remote Online Notarization — Texas supports remote notarization. Learn how to notarize documents online and reach clients anywhere.

How to Start a Mobile Notary Business — turn your Texas notary commission into a profitable business.

How to Market Your Notary Business — get clients from day one with proven strategies.

How to Become a Notary — our complete guide covering requirements for all 50 states.