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Notary Public License Requirements in Texas

Issued by: Office of the Texas Secretary of StateVerified: April 2026
License Required
Required
Application Fee
$21
Renewal
4 years
Exam Required
No
Bond Required
Yes ($10,000)

Requirements

  1. 1Must be a Texas resident, at least 18 years old
  2. 2No felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude
  3. 3Complete Notary Education Requirement through SOS Notary Portal ($20 fee)
  4. 4Obtain a $10,000 surety bond from a Texas-licensed bonding company
  5. 5Submit Traditional Notary Application via SOS Portal ($21 fee)
  6. 6Pass background check conducted by Office of Secretary of State

How to Apply

To become a notary public in Texas, applicants must be a Texas resident, at least 18 years old, with no felony convictions. The process requires completing an online notary education course ($20), obtaining a $10,000 surety bond, and submitting an application ($21) through the SOS Notary Portal. The Secretary of State runs background checks on all applicants.
Apply at Office of the Texas Secretary of State

Costs

Application Fee
$21
Surety Bond
$10,000
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a notary public in Texas?
Complete the online notary education course ($20), obtain a $10,000 surety bond, and submit your application ($21) through the SOS Notary Portal at sos.texas.gov.
What is the application fee to become a Texas notary?
The application fee is $21 for a Traditional Notary Public, plus a $20 notary education course fee. An Online (RON) Notary costs $50 to apply.
Is a bond required to become a notary in Texas?
Yes, Texas notaries must obtain a $10,000 surety bond from a Texas-licensed bonding company and submit proof with their application.
How long is a Texas notary commission valid?
A Texas notary commission is valid for 4 years from the date of appointment.
Who issues notary commissions in Texas?
The Office of the Texas Secretary of State issues notary commissions in Texas through the SOS Notary Portal.

Related pages

Notary Public in other states
Other licenses in Texas
Data sourced from official state government portal. Last verified April 2026.
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