How to Become a Notary in Texas

Steps to Obtain or Renew Your
Texas Notary Public Commission

NOTARY PUBLIC ELIGIBILITY
REQUIREMENTS

Each person commissioned as a notary public shall be:

► At least 18 years of age.
► A resident of the State of Texas.
► Must not have been convicted of a felony or crime involving moral turpitude.
► Complete Notary education requirement with Texas Secretary of State.
► Provide a $10,000 surety bond, if required (state employees are exempt from the bond requirement).
► Pay the $21.57 Secretary of State Filing Fee.
► Complete notary application on the Secretary of State web portal.
► Take an oath of office before a notary public.

STEP 1

Effective January 1, 2026, the State of Texas requires all notary applicants—both new and renewing—to complete and pass a Notary Education course through the Secretary of State (SOS) portal prior to applying for or renewing a notary commission.

To take the course you will need to login or create an account on the Texas SOS Portal, and on the left side click on Notary Education tab.

Only after you have passed the course you can order the bond online.

Texas SOS Portal

STEP 2

Purchase through Atkinson Bros. Agency:
          a. $10,000 Texas Notary Bond and pay the Texas state filing fee. (The bond and filing fee will be electronically submitted to the Texas Secretary of State on your behalf.)
          b. Choose Supplies:
                    ► New Notaries: Need a Notary Seal & Record Book.
                    ► Renewing Notaries: Need a new Notary Seal (Record Book if needed).
          c. Purchase Individual Notary Errors & Omissions Coverage (optional).

Step 2 - Order Bond, E&O, & Supplies Now

Do not skip step 2 above as it will delay your license from being approved.

STEP 3

You’ll receive an email from DoNotReply@sos.texas.gov titled “Notification from Texas Secretary of State – Application Initiated” with instructions.”
          ■ Complete your application by logging into the Texas Secretary of State portal, reviewing, and electronically signing.
                    ► How to: Create an account on the Texas Secretary of State portal
                    ► How to: Complete the Application for Appointment

STEP 4

Once appointed:
          a. Download your commission from the Texas Secretary of State portal.
                    ► Save a copy of the digital version. If you lose it you will have to purchase a new one from the Texas Secretary of State.
          b. Take the Oath of Office before an authorized official (not yourself).
          c. Keep your commission accessible while performing notarial duties.
          d. DO NOT send your commission to the Secretary of State.

Texas SOS Portal

STEP 5

Send a copy of your Commission Certificate to NPLD@NotarySource.com to receive your supplies. Allow 1-3 days for processing.

Last updated January 20, 2026.