To become a notary in Texas, the main steps and requirements are:
- Be at least 18 years old and a resident of Texas.
- Have no unpardoned felony or crime involving moral turpitude convictions.
- Purchase a four-year, $10,000 surety bond from a licensed Texas bonding company.
- Complete the application for appointment as a notary public through the Texas Secretary of State’s online portal.
- Pay a $21 filing fee.
- Electronically sign the application.
- Take the oath of office before a notary public after receiving the commission via email.
- Obtain necessary notary supplies such as a notary seal and record book.
Optional but recommended is completing notary training to understand Texas notary laws and responsibilities. The notary commission lasts four years in Texas. There is no required exam or mandatory training to become a notary. Costs include the surety bond fee (around $50), the $21 application fee, and additional expenses for supplies like the notary seal and journal. These steps can be done online via the Texas Secretary of State’s portal and with assistance from the American Association of Notaries for supplies and bonding.
Let me know if more details on any specific step or on becoming an online notary public are needed.
