Application to Become a Notary in Texas

Texas notaries are appointed by the secretary of state's office for a four-year notary term. To become a notary in Texas, an individual must meet the eligibility requirements (i.e., be over the age 18 and a state resident) and complete and submit a signed notary application Form #2301 (Application for Appointment as Texas Notary Public). Along with the form, applicants must submit proof of a $10,000 notary bond and a $21.00 application fee.

Things to remember when completing a Texas notary application

When completing the Texas notary application, make sure all information on the application is typed or printed legibly using black ink.

It is important to be honest and truthful when completing the notary application. If it is determined that you misstated any information on the notary application, your notary appointment may be delayed or denied. If the misstatements are discovered later, your commission can be revoked or suspended, and you may be denied any future consideration for a notary appointment. You may also be subject to criminal prosecution on a charge of perjury.

Information required on the Texas notary application

• A properly completed notary application will contain the following information:
• The applicant’s name (which must exactly match the name you will use as a notary)
• The applicant’s mailing address
• The applicant’s email address
• The applicant’s county of residence
• The applicant’s date of birth
• The applicant’s driver’s license number (or the number of an alternate official state-issued identification)
• The applicant’s Social Security number
• A convictions questionnaire, answered accurately
• A bond section signed by a bonding agency such as the American Association of Notaries
• A Statement of Officer executed as required by the Texas Constitution, Article 16, Section 1(b)
• A $21.00 state application fee

Some of your personal information is shared

All of the information on the application except for the applicant’s Social Security number and driver’s license number are public records, meaning they are available to the public to view upon request or they are available to view on the Secretary of State’s website. If security concerns are an issue, you are not required to use your home address on the application as the mailing address.

The Secretary of State’s office may require additional information to determine if an applicant is eligible for a notary commission or may deny a notary appointment for “good cause” as prescribed in Tex. Gov’t. Code Ann. §406.009.

Fastest way to become a Notary in Texas

The easiest and quickest way to become a Texas notary is through a one-stop-shop bonding agency such as the American Association of Notaries, which will file the notary application on your behalf with the Secretary of State, issue your notary bond, and manufacture your Texas notary stamp according to notary law specifications. The approval process usually takes seven to fourteen business days if all of the information included on the application is correct.

The American Association of Notaries recommends that each notary keep a copy of the application in his or her files so that it is readily accessible if the notary later needs to contact the Secretary of State, the bonding agency, or the surety company.

The American Association of Notaries has been serving  Texas notaries since 1994.  We are a one-stop-shop for all your Texas notary needs. 

Click here to learn how to become a notary in Texas.