Typical Premium
$50 (4-year term)
Required By
Texas Secretary of State
What Is the Texas Notary Public Bond?
Texas requires every notary public applicant to obtain and file a $10,000 surety bond with the Secretary of State before the notary commission becomes effective. The bond is filed electronically by the surety; no county filing is required (unlike California).
The bond protects parties damaged by:
- The notary's misconduct or fraud
- Negligent performance of a notarial act
- Failure to perform duties properly under Chapter 406
- Improper journaling or identification verification
Who Needs This Bond in Texas?
- All Texas notaries public — new commissions and renewals
- Online Notary Publics (ONPs) — Texas's online notary statute (effective 2018) requires an additional bond, fee, and registration to perform remote online notarizations
- State and federal employees who notarize as part of official duties may use a state-issued bond in lieu of a private bond
How Much Will the Bond Cost?
Texas notary bonds are issued at a fixed rate with no credit check. The total premium for a 4-year bond is typically $50:
| Credit Profile | Annual Premium | Approx. Rate |
|---|
| Texas traditional notary bond ($10,000, 4 yr) | $50 | Fixed |
| Texas online notary bond ($2,500, additional) | $25 – $50 | Fixed |
| E&O insurance (optional) | +$25 – $200 total | Varies by limit |
| State application fee | $21 (paper) / $11 (online) | Set by SOS |
How to Get Bonded — Step by Step
- Apply for your $10,000 bond — instant approval, no credit check.
- Receive your bond by email — same-day issuance.
- Submit your notary application online through the Texas Secretary of State portal — the surety files your bond electronically.
- Receive your commission certificate in 1–3 weeks; order your seal and journal.
- (Optional) Apply for online notary authority — an additional $2,500 bond is required.
Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage
Texas notary commissions and bonds run on a 4-year term. You can renew within 90 days of expiration. Texas does not require continuing education for renewal — just a fresh bond and renewed application. Online notary authority must also be renewed at the same interval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a journal in Texas?
Yes — Texas Government Code §406.014 requires every notary to maintain a sequential record of every notarization. Failure to maintain the journal is a common cause of bond claims.
How is the online notary bond different?
The online notary bond is a separate $2,500 bond that runs alongside the traditional $10,000 bond. You only need it if you wish to perform Remote Online Notarizations (RON) for documents signed by remote signers via approved platforms.
Will my bond cover me if I'm sued?
Only indirectly. The bond pays the claimant, then collects from you. You'll still owe the surety. To protect yourself from defense costs and reimbursement, carry separate E&O insurance.
Can my employer pay for my notary bond?
Yes. Employers commonly cover the bond and supplies. The notary commission, however, belongs to the individual, not the employer — if you change jobs, your commission goes with you.
Ready to get your Texas Notary Public Bond?
Apply in 2 minutes. Most quotes returned same day.
Start Your Application
Related: All Texas surety bonds ·
What is a surety bond? ·
How surety bond costs are calculated
Underwriting Disclosure.
All surety bond applications are subject to underwriting review and approval by the issuing surety company. Quoted premiums are estimates only; final pricing is determined by individual underwriting factors, which may include personal and business credit history, financial statements, industry experience, and claims history. Many bonds qualify for instant online approval, while others may require additional documentation, financial review, or indemnitor signatures prior to issuance. SuretyBondly makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee of approval, eligibility, premium amount, bond form, or issuance timing. Bond amounts, forms, and requirements are governed by the applicable obligee and statutory authority and may change without notice. Information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.