How to Become a Notary in Texas

Texas Notary Commission: The Basics

Texas has over 300,000 commissioned notaries — one of the largest notary populations in the country. Getting your Texas notary commission is a relatively straightforward process, and the demand for notary services in Texas's fast-growing economy is strong.

Here's everything you need to know.

Texas Notary Requirements

To become a notary public in Texas, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a legal resident of Texas (U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien)
• Not be a convicted felon (or have had civil rights restored after felony conviction)
• Be able to read and write English

Texas does not require a notary exam or training course to become commissioned (though training is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to work as a signing agent).

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Texas Notary Commission

Step 1: Purchase a Notary Bond

Texas requires all notaries to hold a $10,000 surety bond for the 4-year term of their commission. This bond protects the public (not you) against notary errors.

Bond cost: approximately $50–$100 for the 4-year term through insurance providers.

You can purchase a notary bond through:

• State Farm, Farmers, Allstate, or other major insurers
• National Notary Association
• Notary.net or similar bonding companies

Step 2: Complete Your Application

The application is filed with the Texas Secretary of State. You'll need:

• Completed application form (available on SOS website)
• Bond certificate from your bonding company
• Application fee: $21 payable to the Secretary of State
• You'll also need to take an oath of office before a Texas notary or other official — some bonding companies handle this as part of the process

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your completed application, bond, and fee to:

• Texas Secretary of State online (via SOSDirect) or by mail

Processing time is typically 1–3 weeks for mail submissions. Online applications can be faster.

Step 4: Receive Your Commission Certificate

Once approved, you'll receive your commission certificate by mail. This is your official appointment as a notary public in Texas.

Keep this certificate — you'll need it to order your seal and for your records.

Step 5: Order Your Notary Seal and Journal

Texas law requires notaries to use a seal (stamp or embosser) that includes:

• The words "Notary Public, State of Texas"
• Your name as it appears on your commission
• Your commission expiration date

Seal cost: $20–$50 depending on type (rubber stamp or embosser)

Texas also requires notaries to keep a notary journal (record book) of all notarial acts. A basic journal costs $15–$30.

Texas Commission Details

• Commission term: 4 years
• Maximum fee: $6 per notarial act (acknowledgments, jurats, etc.)
• Commission renewal: Must be renewed every 4 years through the same application process

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Texas

Texas is one of the leading RON states and has had RON legislation since 2018. To perform Remote Online Notarizations in Texas, you need additional authorization:

1. Hold an active Texas notary commission
2. Register with a state-approved RON platform (the Secretary of State maintains a list)
3. The RON system must meet Texas's technology requirements (audio-visual communication, electronic signature, electronic journal, identity verification)

RON notaries in Texas can serve signers anywhere in the world — not just Texas residents. This significantly expands your earning potential.

Popular RON platforms approved in Texas:

• Notarize (Proof)
• DocVerify
• SIGNiX
• Nexsys eClose

How Much Can You Earn as a Texas Notary?

Standard notary services:

• Most notary acts: up to $6 per act
• Mobile notary travel fees: $50–$200+ depending on distance and urgency
• General notarizations: $25–$100 per appointment

Notary signing agent (loan closings): Texas is a massive real estate market. Signing agents in major Texas metros can earn significantly more:

• Standard residential closing: $100–$175
• Refinance: $100–$150
• Commercial closing: $150–$350+
• RON closing: $100–$200+

Experienced Texas signing agents working full-time can earn $60,000–$120,000+ annually.

Errors and Omissions Insurance

While Texas doesn't legally require E&O insurance for notaries, it's strongly recommended — especially for signing agents. Title companies and signing services typically require it.

Recommended coverage: $25,000–$100,000 per occurrence Annual cost: $40–$100 depending on coverage amount

The NNA (National Notary Association) and other providers offer notary-specific E&O policies.

Texas Notary Signing Agent Certification

To work as a loan signing agent in Texas:

1. Become a commissioned Texas notary
2. Complete a signing agent training course (NNA, Signing Agent University, or similar)
3. Pass a background check (required by most title companies)
4. Obtain E&O insurance
5. Get certified by an industry body (NNA Certified Signing Agent is the most recognized)
6. Build relationships with title companies, escrow officers, and signing services

Texas's booming real estate market — especially in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio — creates consistent demand for signing agents.

Texas Notary Resources

• Texas Secretary of State Notary Division: sos.texas.gov
• Texas Notary Public Sourcebook: Published by the SOS, available free online
• National Notary Association Texas resources: notary.org
• Texas Land Title Association: Resources for signing agents working in real estate

Start Your Texas Notary Journey

Looking Glass Runners partners with notaries across Texas for RON sessions, signing work, and more. If you're a new or aspiring Texas notary, we'd love to connect.

Learn About Our Notary Partner Program →