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Notary Public in Texas

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX

Est. Total Cost

$71

Education + exams + fees

Time to Complete

3-6 weeks (application processing)

From start to licensed

How to Become a Notary Public in Texas

To become a Notary Public in Texas, applicants must meet eligibility requirements including being at least 18 years old and a Texas resident, and not having any felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude. As of January 1, 2026, a mandatory training course through the Texas Secretary of State (SOS) Portal must be completed and passed with a score of 70% or higher. Applicants must also obtain a $10,000 surety bond, pay a $21 application fee and a $20 exam fee, and take an oath of office. The licensing body is the Texas Secretary of State.

Notary Public Requirements in Texas

Detail	Texas
Licensing Body	Texas Secretary of State
State License Required	Yes
Education	Mandatory training course through the Texas SOS Portal (effective January 1, 2026). Must pass with a score of 70% or higher.
Exam	Notary Education Assessment (effective January 1, 2026) ($20)
Application Fee	$21
Renewal	Every 4.0 years
Notes	Minimum age 18. Must be a Texas resident. No felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude. A $10,000 surety bond is required. A background check is conducted. Must take an oath of office. Escrow agents residing in an adjacent state may qualify without meeting the residency requirement.

Source: Texas Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to becoming a notary public in Texas?

Texas requires notary publics to complete the required education (Mandatory training course through the Texas SOS Portal (effective January 1, 2026). Must pass with a score of 70% or higher.), pass the Notary Education Assessment (effective January 1, 2026), and submit your application ($21 fee).

Does Texas require notary public licensure?

A state license is required in Texas. Texas Secretary of State handles notary public licensing — the Notary Education Assessment (effective January 1, 2026) is part of the process.

What are the fees to become a notary public in Texas?

Plan on spending $71 total — that covers exam fee ($20) and application fee ($21) plus your education and training.

How many months or years does notary public certification take in Texas?

Expect to spend 3-6 weeks (application processing) from start to finish in Texas — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.