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Texas Notary Requirements
Basic Eligibility
To become a Texas Notary Public, you must: Be at least 18 years old Be a legal resident of the State of Texas Have no felony convictions Unless pardoned or your civil rights have been restored Not have been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude
Application Process
Complete an Application Use Form 2301 (Application for Appointment as a Texas Notary Public) Purchase a $10,000 Surety Bond Required by the state Valid for the 4-year commission term You must have: An official stamp/seal A notary record book (journal) to log all notarizations Available through notary bonding agencies or insurance companies Submit Application & Bond Send to the Texas Secretary of State with: Application form Original signed bond $21 filing fee (non-refundable) Mail to: Office of the Secretary of State Notary Public Unit P.O. Box 13375 Austin, TX 78711-3375 Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate You'll get a certificate by mail upon approval Buy Your Notary Seal and Journal
Texas Notary Seal Requirements
Need help with branding and marketing to reach out to a larger audience? We can help you create a brand presence and marketing efforts. Must include: The words: “Notary Public, State of Texas” Your name as commissioned Your commission expiration date Must be a rubber stamp (no embossers allowed
Recordkeeping
You must maintain a notary journal (record book) if you charge a fee Entries must include: Date/time of notarization Type of document Name/address of signer Type of ID presented Signature of signer
Fees You Can Charge
Texas notaries may charge: $6 per notarized signature (acknowledgment or jurat) $1 for each additional person $1 for administering an oath or affirmation Travel or after-hours fees may be charged if agreed in advance
Term of Office
A Texas Notary Public commission is valid for 4 years You must renew before expiration to continue operating legally
Prohibited Acts
A notary public in Texas may not: Give legal advice Draft legal documents Notarize your own signature Notarize if you have a financial interest in the transaction
Contact for Assistance
Email: notary@sos.texas.gov Phone: (512) 463-5705 Mail: Notary Public Unit P.O. Box 13375 Austin, TX 78711-3375 https://www.sos.state.tx.us/statdoc/notary-public.shtml
