Texas Notary Education & Commission Requirements

Texas Notary Commission Overview

Texas does not require continuing education for notary publics. To become a notary in Texas, you must complete an initial 6-hour state-approved education course and pass an examination. After commissioning, renewal every 4 years requires a new application and bond — but no additional coursework.

That said, Texas notaries have significant opportunities to grow their income through additional training, including loan signing agent certification and Remote Online Notarization (RON) training.

How to Become a Notary in Texas

1. Meet basic requirements — Be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of Texas, and have no disqualifying criminal history
2. Complete a 6-hour education course — Must be from a state-approved provider
3. Pass the state exam — Administered as part of the education course
4. Purchase a $10,000 surety bond — Required before filing your commission application
5. Submit your application — File with the Texas Secretary of State, including your bond and $21 filing fee
6. Purchase your notary seal — Required for performing notarial acts

Texas Notary Training Providers

Best for Loan Signing Agents

Loan Signing System by Mark Wills is the top-rated loan signing agent certification course, with over 2,400 reviews and a 4.8 rating. If you’re looking to earn $75-$200 per signing appointment as a Texas notary, this is the industry standard course.

Best for General Notary Education

Notary.net offers comprehensive Texas notary training including initial education, supplies, and bonds — all in one place. Their tiered pricing makes it easy to bundle everything you need.

Best for RON Training

BlueNotary is a leading RON platform that helps Texas notaries perform remote online notarizations. Texas was one of the first states to authorize RON in 2017, making it a mature market with strong demand.

Texas Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Texas was a pioneer in Remote Online Notarization, authorizing it in 2017 — one of the earliest states to do so. Texas notaries who want to perform RON must:

1. Register as an online notary with the Texas Secretary of State
2. Complete training with an approved RON technology provider
3. Use an approved identity verification and communication technology
4. Maintain a secure electronic journal of all online notarizations

RON is a growing market in Texas, driven by real estate transactions, legal documents, and the convenience of remote notarization for consumers.

Texas Notary Bond & Supplies

Every Texas notary must maintain a $10,000 surety bond throughout their commission term. Bonds typically cost $30-$50 for the full 4-year term. You’ll also need:

• Official notary seal/stamp — Must include your name, “Notary Public, State of Texas,” your commission expiration date, and your commission number
• Notary journal — While not required by Texas law, keeping a journal is strongly recommended as a best practice
• Notary bag — For mobile notaries who travel to signing appointments

Growing Your Texas Notary Business

Even though Texas doesn’t require CE, additional training can significantly increase your earning potential:

• Loan Signing Agent certification — Earn $75-$200 per signing appointment
• RON certification — Perform notarizations remotely for clients anywhere
• Business marketing — Learn how to find clients and build a steady pipeline
• Estate planning document notarization — Specialized knowledge for wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to become a notary in Texas?

Total costs typically run $150-$250, including the education course ($50-$100), state filing fee ($21), surety bond ($30-$50), and notary seal ($20-$40). Loan signing agent certification is an additional $97-$297.

How long does a Texas notary commission last?

A Texas notary commission is valid for 4 years from the date of qualification. You can apply for renewal up to 90 days before your commission expires.

Can I notarize documents online in Texas?

Yes. Texas authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2017. You must register as an online notary with the Secretary of State and use an approved technology platform.

Do I need to take an exam to become a Texas notary?

Yes. Texas requires completion of a 6-hour approved education course that includes an examination. The exam is typically administered as part of the course.