What Is the Texas Notary Public Bond?
A Texas notary bond is a $10,000 surety bond. You must have it before you can start notarizing.
Here is the key part: it protects the public, not you. If a notary mistake costs someone money, they can claim against it for up to $10,000. The surety then collects from you.
Many notaries also carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. It pays your legal costs if a claim comes in. The bond cannot do that.
Who Needs This Bond in Texas?
- Every new notary in Texas must carry the $10,000 bond.
- Renewing notaries need a new bond for the next term.
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
- Get your bond here. Most issue the same day.
- Complete your Texas notary paperwork.
- File it with the Texas Secretary of State.
- Receive your commission and buy your seal.
Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage
Texas commissions last four years. Your bond must cover the full term. Start a month or two ahead so there is no gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Texas notary bond protect me?
No. The bond protects the public, not you. If the surety pays a claim, you owe that money back. For your own protection, add an errors and omissions (E&O) policy.
How fast can I get my Texas notary bond?
Approval is usually instant. You can have your bond the same day, often in minutes.
How much does a Texas notary bond cost?
Notary bonds are a fixed price with no credit check. You pay a small fee for the whole term — not the full bond amount.
How a Surety Bond Works
A notary bond is a type of surety bond. The picture below shows the three parties and what happens if someone files a claim.
Ready to get your Texas Notary Public Bond?
Apply in 2 minutes. Most bonds issued same day.
Optional: Notary Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
The bond protects the public. E&O insurance protects you from claims caused by a notarial mistake, and it is separate from your bond. Lower-limit policies are available, and higher limits up to $1,000,000 can be quoted.
Related: All Texas surety bonds · What is a surety bond? · How surety bond costs are calculated