Texas Notary Bond: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the $10,000 surety bond required to become a Texas notary public.
📋 Quick Facts
- • Bond Amount: $10,000
- • Your Cost: $38–$50 for 4-year term
- • Term Length: 4 years (matches your commission)
- • Required By: Texas Secretary of State
- • New 2026: Education requirement before application
What is a Texas Notary Bond?
A Texas notary bond is a $10,000 surety bond required by the Texas Secretary of State for anyone who wants to become a commissioned notary public. This bond protects the public against financial losses caused by notary negligence or misconduct.
According to Texas Government Code §406.010, "Each person to be appointed a notary public shall, before entering the official duties of office, execute a bond in the amount of $10,000 with a solvent surety company authorized to do business in this state as a surety."
💡 Important: The Bond Protects the Public, Not You
A notary bond is NOT insurance for the notary. It protects members of the public who suffer financial loss due to a notary's errors or misconduct. If a claim is paid, you must reimburse the surety company.
Texas Notary Public Requirements
According to the Texas Secretary of State, to become a notary public in Texas you must:
- Be a Texas Resident
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have no felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude
- Complete the education requirement (new as of January 1, 2026)
- Obtain a $10,000 surety bond
- Submit your application through the SOS Portal
Types of Texas Notary Commissions
- Traditional Notary Public: Notarizes paper documents. Requires a $10,000 bond.
- Online Notary Public: Can perform remote online notarizations via video. Requires a $10,000 bond plus additional technology requirements.
- State Employee Notary: Notarizes only for their state agency. Bond may be covered by the state.
How Much Does a Texas Notary Bond Cost?
A Texas notary bond typically costs between $38 and $50 for the full 4-year term. That works out to less than $1 per month!
| Cost Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Surety Bond (4-year term) | $38–$50 |
| State Application Fee | $21 |
| Notary Seal/Stamp (optional but recommended) | $15–$30 |
| Total to Get Started | $74–$101 |
Unlike most surety bonds, notary bonds do not require a credit check because the bond amount is relatively low and the risk is minimal.
How to Get Your Texas Notary Bond
Complete Your Education Requirement
As of January 1, 2026, you must complete the notary education course through the SOS Notary Portal before applying.
Purchase Your Notary Bond
Get your $10,000 surety bond from a licensed bonding company. The bond must be from a surety authorized to do business in Texas.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Texas Secretary of State SOS Portal. Include your bond proof with your application.
Receive & Sign Your Commission
Once approved, download your commission from the SOS Portal. You must sign it under oath in the presence of another notary public (you cannot notarize your own commission).
New 2026 Education Requirement
Important change effective January 1, 2026: All Texas notary applicants must now complete a state-required education course before submitting their application.
What You Need to Know:
- Complete the course through the official SOS Notary Portal
- Required for both new applicants and renewals
- Course covers Texas notary laws and proper procedures
- Must be completed before you can submit your application
This requirement was established by Senate Bill 693 to ensure all Texas notaries understand their duties and responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Texas notary bond last?
Texas notary bonds last for 4 years—the same duration as your notary commission. When you renew your commission, you'll need to purchase a new bond.
Is a notary bond the same as notary insurance?
No. A bond protects the public, not you. If a claim is filed against your bond, you must repay the surety company. Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance protects YOU and is recommended but not required in Texas.
Do I need a credit check for a notary bond?
No. Texas notary bonds do not require a credit check because the bond amount ($10,000) is relatively low. Anyone who meets the basic notary requirements can get bonded.
Where do I file my notary bond?
Your bond is filed electronically through the Texas Secretary of State SOS Portal as part of your notary application.
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