Texas notary guide · 2026
Become a Texas notary public: the current application checklist
The process changed in 2026. Complete the Secretary of State’s education requirement, secure a $10,000 bond, and submit your application through SOSPortal.
Updated October 6, 2026 · Based on current Texas Secretary of State guidance
Before you begin
Who can become a Texas notary?
Texas is straightforward, but eligibility comes before the bond and application. If a conviction may affect your eligibility, read the Secretary of State guidance before spending money on supplies or a bond.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a resident of Texas.
- Meet Texas restrictions related to felony convictions and crimes involving moral turpitude.
- Review the Secretary of State eligibility guidance before you apply.
The process
Five steps from interested to commissioned
Follow the official order and keep your receipts and confirmation emails. It makes the application easier to finish and easier to verify later.
Check eligibility and create your SOSPortal account
Start with the Texas Secretary of State requirements, then create an account in the new SOSPortal so you can complete the official process in one place.
Complete the Texas SOS education requirement
The required course is offered through the Secretary of State. It costs $20, takes no more than two hours, and requires at least 70% on the assessment. Complete it within 90 days of paying the fee.
Get your $10,000 surety bond
Buy the required bond from a Texas-licensed bonding company and keep the proof of bond ready for your application. The bond amount is $10,000; the premium you pay varies by provider.
Submit your application in SOSPortal
Upload the required information and bond proof, then pay the $21 state application fee plus any online service fee shown at checkout.
Receive your commission and prepare to work
Processing time can vary. Once commissioned, order your seal and record book, understand the fee rules, and decide which services and Texas areas you want to offer. A Texas commission lasts four years.
Budget planning
How much does it cost to become a notary in Texas?
The state-controlled costs are clear. Your final startup cost depends mostly on the bond premium and the suppliers you choose for your seal and record book, so be wary of guides that promise one exact total.
The official application guide shows a $21 application fee plus a 2.7% online service-fee example. Check the amount displayed in SOSPortal before paying.
- SOS education course
- Non-refundable; complete the course within 90 days.
- State application fee
- Paid through SOSPortal; an online service fee may apply.
- Online service fee
- The official guide gives a 2.7% service-fee example.
- $10,000 surety bond
- The bond amount is fixed; the premium is set by the provider.
- Seal and record book
- Required supplies, with prices set by the supplier. See Texas record book requirements
Beyond a desk stamp
Become a mobile notary or loan signing agent in Texas
A Texas notary commission authorizes you to perform notarial acts. Offering mobile notary service or working as a loan signing agent is a business choice on top of that commission — not a separate state license with its own SOS application.
Mobile notary work
You travel to the signer’s home, office, or another agreed location. Plan for reliable transportation, clear service-area boundaries, and a way for customers to reach you. NotaryHub is Texas-focused lead routing — not automatic scheduling.
Loan signing agent (LSA)
Loan signings are longer mortgage or refinance packages coordinated with title companies and lenders. Many agents pursue additional private training and industry credentials; Texas SOS does not issue a separate “loan signing agent” commission. Confirm package instructions with the hiring party before each appointment.
What to set up after commissioning
- Seal, record book, and acceptable ID practices required for any Texas notary work — see seal requirements, record book requirements, and how E&O differs from the bond.
- Decide which services you offer: general, mobile, loan signing, and/or online (RON has a separate SOS process).
- List cities and counties you can actually serve — see hubs like Houston, Dallas, and Austin.
Ready to get found after you’re commissioned?
Create a NotaryHub profile so Texas customers can discover your mobile or loan-signing availability. You discuss timing, credentials, and fees directly with anyone who follows up.
Deeper walkthrough: how to start a mobile notary business in Texas · blog version of this guide · loan signing service page · Texas notary resources hub
After you’re commissioned
Turn a commission into a service people can find
A commission gives you authority to notarize; it does not create demand by itself. Decide where you work, what you offer, and how customers should reach you.
Create your NotaryHub profileChoose your area
List the Texas cities and counties you can actually serve.
Set your services
Explain whether you offer general, mobile, loan-signing, or online work.
Build trust
Keep your profile current and be clear about availability and pricing.
Traditional commission first, online notary second
Texas online notary work has an additional process. You need a current traditional notary commission first, then a separate online-notary application, digital certificate, and electronic seal. Do not treat RON as an automatic add-on to your first commission.
Read the Texas online-notary requirementsUse the original sources
Verify before you apply
This guide is designed to make the process easier to understand, not replace the Secretary of State’s instructions. Requirements and fees can change.
Ready for the next step?