How to Become a Texas Notary
Texas Notaries hold a variety of responsibilities including taking acknowledgments, administering oaths, certifying copies of nonpublic records, and other duties authorized by Texas law. If you are ready to become a Texas notary, the information listed below will guide you through the Texas notary application process.
Who can become a notary in Texas?
To become a notary in Texas, you must be:
- At least 18 years of age or older.
- A resident of the state of Texas.
- Not have been convicted of a felony or crime involving moral turpitude.
How do I apply to become a Texas notary?
Texas has the simplest notary application process in the nation. No testing or exams are required.
Follow the steps below to become a notary in Texas:
- Purchase a $10,000 notary bond. (State employees are exempt from the bond requirement.)
- Properly complete and submit a Texas notary application along with the notary bond to the Texas Secretary of State, Notary Public Unit.
- Include a $21 state filing fee with the application.
- Upon approval as a notary, take an oath of office before a notary public.
- Purchase a notary stamp and a notary record book.
Can I apply online to become a Texas notary?
The Texas Secretary of State accepts notary applications filed electronically. The American Association of Notaries was the first organization approved by the state to file applications online. Applying online is fast, easy, and secure, and the turnaround time to approve your notary application is faster. To start the Texas notary application online, go to https://www.texasnotary.com/how-to-become-a-notary-in-Texas
How much does it cost to become a notary in Texas?
The cost to become a Texas notary is less than $100.00 for a four-year term. Here is the breakdown of the cost:
- State Fees - $21.00
- Notary Stamp - $18.95
- Notary Journal - $9.95
- $10,000 Notary Bond - $50.00
How long is the process to become a notary in Texas?
If your Texas notary application is not missing any information, it takes from ten to fourteen working days to be approved as a Texas notary and receive your notary commission certificate and supplies.
Where can I apply to become a Texas notary?
The easiest way to apply to become a Texas notary is to choose an organization that offers all you need to become a Texas notary in one place. The American Association of Notaries is a one-stop-shop for all your notary needs. Click here to apply to become a notary in Texas.
Legal Disclaimer: The American Association of Notaries seeks to provide timely articles for notaries to assist them with information for managing their notary businesses, enhancing their notary education, and securing their notary stamp and notary supplies. Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information in the American Association of Notaries newsletters. However, we make no warrant, expressed or implied, and we do not represent, undertake, or guarantee that the information in the newsletter is correct, accurate, complete, or non-misleading. Information in this article is not intended as legal advice. We are not attorneys. We do not pretend to be attorneys. Though we will sometimes provide information regarding notaries' best practices, federal laws and statutes, and the laws and statutes of each state, we have gathered this information from a variety of sources and do not warrant its accuracy. In no event shall the American Association of Notaries, its employees, or contractors be liable to you for any claims, penalties, loss, damage, or expenses, howsoever arising, including, and without limitation, direct or indirect loss or consequential loss out of or in connection with the use of the information contained in the American Association of Notaries newsletters. It is your responsibility to know the appropriate notary laws governing your state. Notaries are advised to seek the advice of their states' notary authorities or attorneys in their state if they have legal questions. If a section of this disclaimer is determined by any court or other competent authority to be unlawful and/or unenforceable, the other sections of this disclaimer continue in effect.
Texas notary bonds and errors and omissions insurance policies provided by this insurance agency, the American Association of Notaries, Inc., are underwritten by Western Surety Company (established 1900). American Association of Notaries is owned by Kal Tabbara, a licensed insurance agent in Texas.