How to Become a Notary Public in Texas (Get your Notary Commission)
- Ensure you meet all of Texas’ eligibility requirements.
- Get a $10,000 surety bond.
- Complete the application.
- Submit your application, proof of your bond and $21 filing fee to the state.
- Receive your commission certificate.
- Take your oath of office. You should bring your commission certificate to a Texas Notary who will administer the oath and notarize the form (Tex. Gov’t Code, Sec. 406.010(d)).
- Obtain your Notary seal and journal.
Becoming a Notary is an easy way to offer convenient services and secure services to clients. Notaries offer a necessary service to commerce and to the communicty! So what are you waiting for?
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Texas Notary Requirements
How much does it cost to become a Texas Notary?
The state filing fee amounts to $21. Costs for your bond, seal, and journal may vary depending on the vendor you select. It’s crucial to review the terms and product quality before making your purchase, as some vendors may include additional or hidden fees, such as processing fees.
New Notaries often require more support compared to experienced ones. Training courses, instructional materials, and live expert assistance are often essential for those new to Notary duties.
How long does it take to obtain my TX Notary commission?
Upon completing and submitting your application, along with proof of your bond and the $21 filing fee to the state, you can expect to receive your commission certificate from the state within approximately two weeks if submitted electronically, or around 30 days if mailed.
To expedite the process and avoid potential delays, utilize our complimentary application wizard to minimize errors.
Once you receive your commission certificate, you’ll need to administer your oath of office as per Tex. Gov’t Code, Sec. 406.010(d).
What is the duration of my Texas Notary commission?
Your Texas Notary commission remains valid for four years.
Qualifications to become a Notary in Texas
There are three fundamental qualifications for individuals aspiring to become Notaries in Texas:
– Must be at least 18 years old
– Must be a resident of the state of Texas
– Must not have been convicted of a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude that has not been dismissed or discharged by law
Escrow agents residing in a state bordering Texas may qualify as Texas Notaries without meeting the residency requirement.
Is training mandatory to become a TX Notary?
While training is not obligatory for Texas Notaries, the Secretary of State offers educational materials and an online training video for reference.
BlueNotary provides the Blue Mastermind Training Program designed to equip new Notaries with the necessary knowledge to perform common notarial tasks.
Is a Notary exam required to become a Notary in Texas?
No, passing an examination is not a prerequisite for becoming a Notary in Texas.
What Notary supplies do you need?
Notaries must possess an official Notary seal and journal, as well as display a fee schedule. You will need more if you are working online.
Your Notary seal, available as an inked stamp or embosser, should bear specific information within a designated shape and size. When selecting a journal, opt for features like tamper-proof binding and dedicated fee sections. It’s crucial to maintain and safeguard your journal for the entirety of your commission or for a minimum of three years post the last notarization.
Additionally, ensure your supplies remain under your exclusive control at all times, and consider acquiring a secure case or bag.
Are Texas Notaries required to have a surety bond or insurance?
Texas Notaries are mandated by law to procure a $10,000 surety bond from a state-authorized company. This bond, approved by the Secretary of State and payable to the Governor, serves as financial protection for individuals impacted by a Notary’s improper execution of duties.
Although not mandatory, many Notaries opt to purchase errors and omissions (E&O) insurance to safeguard against potential legal expenses.
Texas Notary FAQ’s
Which governmental body oversees Notaries in Texas?
The issuance of Notary Public commissions is managed by the Secretary of State office, headquartered in Austin, TX.
Where can I obtain Notary training in Texas?
While the state of Texas doesn’t mandate training, numerous reputable providers offer Notary Public training online. However, it’s essential to note that the Secretary of State doesn’t endorse any specific training providers. Thus, it’s advisable to thoroughly research any company before enrolling in their training programs.
Can I get assistance in becoming a TX Notary?
Absolutely. Various companies, including the National Notary Association, offer comprehensive support for Notary training, supplies, bonds, insurance, and application assistance. Additionally, the Secretary of State’s website provides detailed application guidelines, educational resources, and training videos for individuals wishing to navigate the process independently.
Where can I perform notarizations in Texas?
As a Texas Notary, you’re authorized to conduct notarizations anywhere within the state’s borders.
Who is eligible for notarization services?
You may notarize documents for anyone presenting acceptable identification, except yourself. However, there are restrictions regarding notarizing documents in which you have a personal interest or benefit.
What are the fees for notarial acts in Texas?
Texas Notaries can charge a maximum fee of $10 per notarial act, subject to periodic review by the Secretary of State. Notaries have the flexibility to charge lower fees or waive charges entirely, provided they maintain a visible fee schedule for clients.
How do I update my information if I relocate or change my name?
In the event of an address or name change, you must notify the Secretary of State within 10 days. For address changes, submit the required form, while name changes necessitate additional documentation and a filing fee.
What are the legal risks associated with being a Notary?
Notaries are exposed to legal risks, as even minor errors can lead to significant consequences. Diligent adherence to notarial laws and meticulous record-keeping can mitigate these risks.
How do I renew my Notary commission in Texas?
To renew your commission, maintain your surety bond and initiate the renewal process within 90 days of expiration. Additionally, acquire a new Notary seal to reflect the updated commission.
How can I become an electronic Notary in Texas?
Any traditional Notary Public can perform electronic notarizations by adhering to the requisite protocols, which entail in-person transactions involving digital documents and signatures.
Is Online Notarization Legal in Texas?
Yes, online notarization became legal in Texas in 2018! As long as you meet all the requirements and obtain your Electronic Notary Public Certificate, you can offer your services online.
As long as you become an officially appointed online notary public, your services are valid in the state of Texas.
How Do You Become An Online Notary In Texas?
Once you have met all the requirements to become a traditional notary in Texas, you can apply to become an online notary in Texas by:
- Hold an existing commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Choose a RON vendor.
- Buy a digital certificate and eSeal that is compatible with your chosen vendor.
- Complete the form.
- Use the digital certificate and eseal you obtained to sign the Statement of Officer form.
- Pay the application fee.
- You should receive a reference number and email regarding your application in less than 3 business days.
Once you have become an online notary in Texas, you must comply with the Texas Online Notary Public’s Handbook. This handbook outlines all of the requirements for providing online notary services in Texas.
What Can I Expect?
As in other professions, the amount of work an online notary receives can vary widely. Generally the busiest time is tax season, when documents such as tax returns need to be signed and notarized. However, there is also a steady demand throughout the year from businesses and individuals in need of authentication services. There are many businesses that need consistent notarizations.
It is important to remember that when working as an online notary, you are responsible for adhering to the regulations set forth by the state. This includes making sure documents are properly completed and witnessed and ensuring they contain all of the necessary information. Additionally, the most successful online notaries spend some time doing their own client acquisition and sales funneling
How do I Start?
Join the BlueNotary Notary Mastermind Group in order to get advice from Texas notaries! They’ve been through the process and can answer all your questions! As well as keep you compliant with your S.O.S. Becoming an online notary can be a great way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the community.
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General Questions About notary in Texas
What are the eligibility requirements to become a traditional notary in Texas?
To become a traditional notary in Texas, the eligibility requirements include being at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the State of Texas, and having no criminal convictions or felonies that would prevent you from serving as a public official. Additionally, you must be able to read and write in English, have not had a notary commission revoked or suspended in the past, and demonstrate adherence to the state’s laws regarding notarization.
What specific services does a RON (Remote Online Notarization) vendor provide, and how do I choose the right one?
Choosing the right Remote Online Notarization (RON) vendor involves considering several factors such as compatibility with your digital certificate and eSeal, the security features offered, customer support, ease of use, and pricing. A good RON vendor should provide a secure and user-friendly platform that ensures the integrity and authenticity of online notarizations. It’s advisable to research and compare different RON vendors, check for reviews from other notaries, and perhaps even test the platforms if free trials are available to find one that best suits your needs.
Are there any ongoing or additional costs involved in maintaining an online notary commission in Texas?
Regarding the ongoing or additional costs involved in maintaining an online notary commission in Texas, notaries should be aware of several potential expenses. These may include the renewal fees for your notary commission and digital certificate, costs associated with keeping your eSeal valid, any subscription or transaction fees charged by your RON vendor, and possibly continuing education courses if required for renewal. Additionally, since technology and security standards evolve, there might be occasional costs related to upgrading software or purchasing new equipment to remain compliant with the state’s requirements for online notarization. Keeping abreast of changes in the law and industry standards is crucial for budgeting for these potential expenses.
