Becoming a notary public in Texas involves understanding the requirements, application process, and responsibilities associated with this important role. This guide provides a detailed overview of the different types of Notary Services available in Texas and how to become a commissioned notary.
Types of Notary Services in Texas
Texas offers three primary types of notary commissions: Traditional Notary Public, Online Notary Public, and State Employee Notary Public. Each type has specific requirements and authorizations.
Traditional Notary Public
A Traditional Notary Public is commissioned by the Office of the Texas Secretary of State to perform notarial acts for tangible, paper documents. These acts include administering oaths, taking acknowledgments, and witnessing signatures. The application process involves:
- Reviewing the Notary FAQs and educational materials provided by the Secretary of State.
- Completing the required training.
- Submitting a Traditional Notary Application along with proof of a Notary Public Surety Bond from a Texas-licensed bonding company. Applicants working with a bonding agency should review specific instructions for bond-submitted applications.
- Submitting the application through the SOS Portal system. Additional documentation, such as court orders and statements regarding criminal convictions, may be required.
Online Notary Public (RON)
An Online Notary Public, also known as a Remote Online Notary (RON), holds the same authority as a traditional notary but performs notarizations remotely using secure two-way audio-video technology. The application process is similar to the traditional notary application but includes:
- Reviewing Online Notary education materials.
- Obtaining a compliant digital certificate and an electronic seal from an approved third-party vendor. The Secretary of State provides resources on getting started with this process.
- Submitting the Online Notary Application through the SOS Portal system. As with the traditional application, additional documentation regarding criminal history may be required.
State Employee Notary Public
This type of notary commission is specifically for individuals employed by a state agency or university. State Employee Notaries are authorized to perform notarial acts solely for their employing agency and not for the general public. The application process involves:
- Reviewing the Notary FAQs and educational materials.
- Completing the required training.
- Reviewing specific instructions for state employees and completing the SORM-203 Acknowledgement Form.
- Obtaining an Interagency Voucher (ITV) for payment.
- Submitting the application via the SOS Portal System. Documentation related to criminal convictions may be necessary.
Post-Application Process for Notary Services
After submitting your notary application online, you will receive a confirmation email. Once processed, you will receive further notification. Approved applicants will receive instructions for accessing their commission through the SOS Portal, which must be signed under oath in the presence of a qualified official (notaries cannot self-commission). Denied applicants will receive information on reapplication or appeal options.
Notary Complaints and Resources
Individuals can file complaints against notaries with the Secretary of State’s office for misconduct. Disciplinary action may be taken if warranted. Understanding the relevant laws and regulations, including the Texas Government Code, Civil Practice and Remedies Code, and Texas Administrative Code, is crucial for notaries to avoid complaints and disciplinary measures. The Secretary of State provides a dedicated webpage for notary complaints and further information.
Conclusion
Obtaining a notary commission in Texas requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific procedures. This guide outlines the different types of notary services available and the steps required to become a commissioned notary. By understanding the specific requirements and responsibilities associated with each type of commission, aspiring notaries can choose the path that best aligns with their needs and effectively serve the public. For further details and resources, consult the Office of the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
