How to Become a Notary Public in Texas (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to Become a Notary Public in Texas
Becoming a notary public in Texas is a great way to earn extra income, serve your community, and even start a loan signing business. This step-by-step guide walks you through requirements, training, costs, state fees, bonds, and insurance — everything you need to get started.
Step 1: Meet the Texas Notary Requirements
Before you apply, make sure you qualify. According to the Texas Secretary of State, you must:
- ✅ Be at least 18 years old
- ✅ Be a legal resident of Texas
- ✅ Have no felony convictions (unless pardoned or granted restoration of civil rights)
- ✅ Not have been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude
Tip: Moral turpitude generally means fraud, theft, or dishonesty-related crimes. If you have questions about eligibility, consult with an attorney before applying.
📎 Helpful Link: Texas Secretary of State – Notary Public Qualifications
Step 2: Purchase Your $10,000 Surety Bond
Texas requires all notaries to carry a $10,000 surety bond for their 4-year commission term.
- The bond protects the public, not you, if you make a mistake that causes financial harm.
- You can purchase the bond through a bonding company, notary association, or some insurance providers.
Typical Cost: $50–$75 for the full 4-year term.
📎 Helpful Link: Texas Surety Bond Providers List (Approved)
Step 3: Submit Your Texas Notary Application
You can apply online through the Texas Secretary of State’s website or submit a paper application.
- Fill out the application form (includes personal info & declaration)
- Attach proof of your bond
- Pay the state filing fee
State Filing Fee: $21 (as of 2025)
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate — usually within 2–3 weeks.
📎 Helpful Link: Apply for Texas Notary Commission (Official Form 2301)
Step 4: Get Your Notary Supplies
To start notarizing, you’ll need:
- Notary Seal/Stamp – Must meet Texas requirements (name, “Notary Public, State of Texas,” commission expiration date).
- Notary Journal – Recommended for recordkeeping (not required by law, but highly advised for protection).
- Optional E&O Insurance – Protects YOU (not the public) if you make a mistake.
Typical Costs:
- Notary stamp: $15–$30
- Journal: $10–$20
- E&O insurance: ~$30–$100/year depending on coverage
📎 Helpful Link: Texas Notary Supplies (NNA Store)
Step 5: Take Optional Notary Training
Texas does not require training to become a notary, but it’s highly recommended — especially if you plan to handle real estate documents or sensitive legal paperwork.
- Online courses and live training are available from providers like the National Notary Association (NNA) and Notary2Pro.
- Training helps you avoid costly mistakes, understand state laws, and build confidence.
Step 6: Start Performing Notarial Acts
Once commissioned and equipped, you can start offering notary services. Examples of common notarial acts include:
- Acknowledgments
- Jurats (oaths & affirmations)
- Copy certifications
- Witnessing signatures
Pro Tip: Learn Texas notary fees — you can charge up to $6 per notarization (plus travel fees if you are a mobile notary).
Step 7: Keep Your Commission Active
Your Texas notary commission lasts 4 years.
- Renew before it expires to avoid a gap.
- Update your bond and supplies with your new commission dates.
- Stay informed on any Texas notary law changes by following the Secretary of State’s updates.
📎 Helpful Link: Texas Notary Public Handbook (PDF)
Notary Public vs. Loan Signing Agent (What’s the Difference?)
| Feature | Texas Notary Public | Loan Signing Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Performs notarial acts (acknowledgments, jurats, oaths) | Specializes in notarizing real estate loan documents |
| Training Required | None (optional but recommended) | Training highly recommended (e.g., NNA, Notary2Pro) |
| Income Potential | $6 per notarization + travel fees | $75–$200 per loan signing appointment |
| Clients | General public, businesses | Title companies, lenders, signing services |
| Equipment Needed | Notary stamp, journal | Dual-tray printer, scanner, computer, notary stamp |
| Opportunity | Good side income | High income potential (part-time or full-time business) |
Tip: Many Texas notaries eventually add loan signing services to boost income and build a full-time business.
Common Mistakes New Texas Notaries Make
Avoid these pitfalls to protect your commission and reputation:
- ❌ Forgetting to renew your commission on time
- ❌ Charging more than Texas law allows
- ❌ Not properly identifying signers (risk of fraud)
- ❌ Skipping recordkeeping (no journal entries)
- ❌ Not purchasing E&O insurance — leaving yourself financially exposed
📎 Helpful Link: Texas Notary Fee Schedule (Official)
Total Cost to Become a Notary in Texas
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| $10,000 Surety Bond | $50–$75 |
| State Filing Fee | $21 |
| Notary Stamp & Journal | $25–$50 |
| Optional Training | $50–$200 |
| Optional E&O Insurance | $30–$100/year |
Estimated Total: $125 – $325 (depending on training & insurance choices)
Get Started Today
Becoming a Texas notary is a straightforward process and a valuable side hustle. By following these steps — meeting the requirements, securing your bond, filing your application, and getting the right supplies — you’ll be ready to start notarizing documents legally and professionally.
If you plan to grow beyond basic notarizations, consider adding loan signing services and learning about Remote Online Notarization (RON) to increase your income opportunities.
