How to Become a Notary Public in Texas

Becoming a notary public in Texas can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Notaries public play a crucial role in our legal system by acting as impartial witnesses to the signing of important documents. If you are interested in becoming a notary public in the Lone Star State, here are the steps you need to follow.

Eligibility requirements:
To become a notary public in Texas, you must meet a set of eligibility requirements. Firstly, you must be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of Texas. You must also have no felony convictions and be able to read, write, and speak English. It’s worth noting that Texas law does not require notaries public to be U.S. citizens or legal residents, meaning that non-U.S. citizens can also pursue this profession.

Educational requirements:
Texas does not require applicants to complete any specific educational courses or programs. However, it’s highly recommended to complete a notary public course offered by a reputable organization. These courses provide valuable insights into the responsibilities and duties of a notary public and can help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge.

Application process:
To start the application process, you need to complete the Texas Notary Public Application Form. This form is available on the Texas Secretary of State’s website. Fill out the form accurately and provide all the necessary personal information. You will also need to submit your fingerprints for a background check. You can get your fingerprints taken at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) location. There is a fee associated with the fingerprints, so be sure to check the current rates on the DPS website.

Pass the notary examination:
After submitting your application, you will receive a notice from the Secretary of State’s office providing you with instructions on how to schedule your notary examination. The examination is an open book test and is conducted online. It consists of true/false and multiple-choice questions that assess your understanding of the laws and regulations governing notaries public in Texas. The passing score is 70%, and you will receive your exam results immediately upon completion.

Obtain a surety bond and pay the fees:
Once you have passed the notary examination, you need to obtain a notary public surety bond. The bond acts as financial protection for your clients and is required by Texas law. The bond amount is $10,000, and you can obtain it from a licensed surety bond provider. You will also need to pay the application fee and the filing fee to the Secretary of State’s office. The fees may vary, so consult their website for the most up-to-date information.

Take the oath of office:
The final step in becoming a notary public in Texas is taking the oath of office. Within 90 days of receiving your commission certificate, you must file your bond and take the oath of office before a notary public or other authorized official. Once the oath of office is complete, you are officially a notary public and can begin performing notarial acts.

It’s important to note that being a notary public does not grant you the authority to practice law or offer legal advice. However, it offers you the opportunity to serve your community, facilitate important transactions, and ensure the integrity of legal documents.

Becoming a notary public in Texas requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the state’s laws and regulations. By following these steps and fulfilling the necessary requirements, you can embark on a fulfilling journey as a notary public, contributing to the legal system and helping individuals in need.