Texas Notary Public: The Complete 2026 Guide to Commissioning & Bonds

Becoming a Texas Notary Public is a vital step for professionals in real estate, law, and general business. However, as of January 1, 2026, the Texas Secretary of State (SOS) has implemented the most significant changes to the notary application process in decades.

At Gerald Franklin Agency (GFA), we specialize in the “New Texas Notary” era. We don’t just provide the state-mandated $10,000 surety bond; we provide the technical roadmap to navigate the new mandatory education and digital filing requirements. Whether you are a first-time applicant or a renewing professional, GFA ensures your commission is handled with the same precision we bring to TABC liquor licensing.

 

2026 Texas notary public requirements: what has changed?

The traditional “paper-only” days of notary applications are over. To become a commissioned notary in the State of Texas today, you must meet new educational benchmarks before you can even submit your bond.

The new mandatory education & assessment

Every applicant (new and renewing) must now complete a state-approved training course directly through the Texas Secretary of State (SOS) Portal.

• The Course: A digital module (maximum 2 hours) covering Texas Notary laws and ethics.
• The Exam: An open-book assessment requiring a 70% passing score.
• The Fee: A $20.71 non-refundable training fee (includes the state’s technology surcharge).

 

The $10,000 Texas Notary Surety Bond

Texas law requires every Notary Public to post a $10,000 surety bond for their four-year commission term. It is important to understand the role of this bond: it is a financial guarantee to the public and the State of Texas that you will perform your duties ethically and in accordance with the law.

• Who it Protects: The bond protects the public from financial loss due to a notary’s errors; it does not protect the notary from personal liability.
• The Cost: GFA offers these bonds at a competitive premium—typically $50.00 for the full 4-year term.
• Filing Requirements: Once GFA issues your bond, you must upload the completed Form 2301-B into the SOS Portal as part of your final application submission.

 

Step-by-step: how to become a notary in Texas in 2026

Navigating the new SOS Portal can be a hurdle. We recommend the following workflow to ensure your commission is approved without delays:

1. Verify Eligibility: You must be 18+ years old, a legal resident of Texas, and have no felony convictions or crimes of “moral turpitude.”
2. Complete SOS Training: Log into the SOS Portal and pass the mandatory Notary Education Assessment.
3. Secure Your GFA Bond: Give our office a call to receive your $10,000 Texas Notary Bond. We provide the specific digital format required for SOS upload.
4. Submit Application & Fees: Upload your bond and proof of training into the portal and pay the $21.57 state filing fee.
5. Take the Oath of Office: Once you receive your certificate via email, you must take your oath of office before another commissioned notary.

 

E&O insurance: protecting the notary from liability

While the $10,000 bond is required by law, it only protects your clients. To protect yourself from lawsuits and legal fees, GFA strongly recommends adding Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance.

• Why it’s necessary: A simple mistake on a deed or an affidavit can lead to a lawsuit. E&O insurance covers your legal defense and any damages awarded, up to your policy limit.
• GFA Bundles: We offer specialized bundles that combine your mandatory bond with professional liability coverage for one low price.

 

Why choose GFA as your Texas notary bonding agency?

Gerald Franklin Agency is built on a foundation of regulatory expertise. Just as we navigate the complexities of TABC for liquor licenses, we bring an “insider’s” eye to the Secretary of State’s notary system.

• SOS Portal Expertise: We understand the new digital upload requirements and ensure your bond matches your application exactly.
• All-in-One Filing: We can help manage the entire paperwork trail, from the initial application to the final bond filing.
• Unmatched Support: If your application is flagged for an error, our staff works with you to resolve the issue immediately.

 

Texas notary public frequently asked questions

How long is a Texas Notary commission valid?

A Texas Notary Public commission is valid for four years from the date of issuance. You must renew your commission and secure a new $10,000 bond every four years.

Does the new 2026 training apply to renewing notaries?

Yes. Effective January 1, 2026, all renewing notaries must also complete the mandatory training course and pass the assessment through the SOS portal before their commission can be extended.

What is the total cost to become a notary in Texas?

In 2026, the estimated cost is approximately $170–$195. This includes the $20 state training fee, $21 state filing fee, $50 GFA surety bond, and the cost of your official seal and journal.

What happens if I move or change my name?

You must notify the Secretary of State of an address change within 10 days via the SOS Portal. Name changes require an amended commission, which GFA can assist with by providing a Bond Rider.

 

Ready to secure your Texas notary commission?

Don’t let the new 2026 SOS requirements slow you down. Get your bond and application support from the agency that knows Texas law inside and out. Give Gerald Franklin Agency a call—we can file all the paperwork and applications for you!