How to Become a Notary in Texas

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a notary in Texas, you must meet these basics under Texas Government Code Chapter 406:

• Age: At least 18 years old.
• Residency: A legal resident of Texas (no citizenship requirement).
• Criminal History: No felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude (e.g., fraud, perjury). A background check is mandatory; minor offenses may not disqualify you, but disclose them.
• Other: Able to read and write English; no outstanding child support obligations (verified via background check).

If you have a criminal record, contact the Secretary of State’s office for pre-approval. About 5–10% of applications are denied annually due to background issues.

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Notary

The process takes 4–8 weeks from application to commissioning. All applications are electronic via the SOS Notary Portal since 2023.

Step 1: Complete Education (Optional but Recommended)

• Take a 4-hour notary education course from an approved provider (e.g., National Notary Association or American Association of Notaries). Cost: $50–$100.
• Covers Texas laws, ethics, and duties. While not required for initial commissioning, it’s mandatory for renewal and helps pass the background check.

Step 2: Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond

• Purchase a 4-year, $10,000 notary surety bond from a licensed Texas bonding company (e.g., SuretyBonds.com or Colleys Bond). This protects the public from errors up to $10,000.
• Cost: $25–$50, depending on credit score. No credit check needed for most.
• The bond company often handles filing with the state.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Electronically

• Create an account on the Texas SOS Notary Portal (sos.state.tx.us).
• Fill out the online application, including personal info, bond details, and education certificate (if applicable).
• Pay the $21 filing fee (non-refundable).
• Undergo a criminal background check (fingerprinting optional but recommended; $10–$20 if done).
• Processing time: 2–4 weeks. You’ll receive approval via email.

Step 4: Take the Oath of Office

• Upon approval, print your commission certificate.
• Visit another commissioned Texas notary (or online notary) to take the oath of office and have them notarize the certificate.
• Fee: $10–$15. Keep the notarized certificate on file (required for audits).

Step 5: Purchase Supplies and Start Notarizing

• Get a notary seal (embosser or ink stamp with your name, commission number, and “Notary Public, State of Texas”) and a record book (journal) for entries.
• Cost: $20–$50 total.
• You’re official! Notarize anywhere in Texas; for remote online notarization (RON), apply separately ($100 fee, additional training).

Total startup cost: $50–$150, plus education.

Renewal Process

Commissions last 4 years. Renew 90 days before expiration:

• Complete a 4-hour education course ($50–$100).
• Submit electronic renewal application ($21 fee).
• New $10,000 bond.
• Background check (every renewal).
• Processing: 2–4 weeks.

Miss the window? You’re de facto resigned; reapply as new.

Special Considerations: Online Notaries

Texas allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) since 2018. To become an online notary:

• First, get traditional commission.
• Apply via SOS portal ($100 fee).
• Complete 2-hour RON training.
• Purchase RON platform (e.g., NotaryLive, $100–$300/year).
• Benefits: Notarize remotely via video; higher fees ($25+ per act).

Over 10,000 online notaries in Texas as of 2025.

Why Become a Notary in Texas?

• Income Potential: Earn $6–$10 per acknowledgment, $15 for oaths—up to $50/hour mobile.
• Flexibility: Work evenings/weekends; mobile notaries charge travel fees.
• Demand: High in real estate (closings), legal (affidavits), and business (powers of attorney).
• Low Barrier: No college degree needed; part-time friendly.

Practical Tips for Success

• Get Insured: Notary errors and omissions (E&O) insurance ($25–$50/year) protects against lawsuits.
• Market Yourself: List on Yelp or notary directories; join associations like NNA for leads.
• Stay Compliant: Keep a detailed journal; destroy old seals upon renewal.
• Network: Partner with realtors or attorneys for steady work.
• Track Fees: Max $10 per signature, $6 for jurats—post a schedule.

Common Questions Answered

• How long until I can start? 4–8 weeks from application.
• Can non-citizens apply? Yes, if Texas residents.
• What if denied? Appeal via State Office of Administrative Hearings; common for minor offenses.
• Mobile Notary? Yes—travel and charge mileage ($1/mile reasonable).
• 2025 Changes? Electronic applications mandatory; RON enhancements for video verification.

Things to Avoid

Don’t notarize without ID verification—fines up to $4,000. Avoid backdating documents (felony). Don’t exceed fees or act outside Texas. Steer clear of unapproved education providers. Renew on time to avoid reapplication.

Tailoring to Your Goals

Side Hustle: Focus on mobile services in high-demand areas like Houston. Full-Time: Get RON certification for remote work. Newbies: Start with free SOS guides before courses.

Read Child Abuse Statute of Limitations in Texas

Key Takeaways

Becoming a notary in Texas is accessible: Meet eligibility (18+, resident, clean record), get a $10,000 bond ($25–$50), submit electronic application ($21 fee), take the oath, and buy supplies ($20–$50). Total cost: $50–$150; process: 4–8 weeks. Commissions last 4 years with renewal education. It’s a flexible, profitable role earning $6–$10 per act. With electronic apps and RON options, start today via the SOS portal. Empowering documents, one signature at a time—what’s your first notarization?