Key Takeaways
- Texas notary commissions are valid for 4 years
- Renewal applications should be submitted up to 90 days before expiration
- There is NO grace period - you cannot notarize after expiration
- Renewing notaries must also complete the education course as of 2026
- Allow 4-6 weeks processing time to avoid gaps
Last updated: January 2026
Commission Term and Renewal
Your Texas notary commission is valid for 4 years. Understanding the renewal process helps ensure continuous authority to notarize.
Commission Term
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Start date | Date on commission certificate |
| Jurisdiction | Statewide (all of Texas) |
| Renewal | Required to continue notarizing |
Renewal Timeline
| Timeframe | Action |
|---|---|
| 90 days before expiration | Can begin renewal process |
| 60 days before | Complete education course |
| 30-45 days before | Submit renewal application |
| Before expiration | New commission must be received |
| After expiration | CANNOT notarize |
CRITICAL: There is NO grace period. If your commission expires before renewal is complete, you cannot perform any notarial acts.
Renewal Requirements (Post-2026)
| Requirement | New Notaries | Renewing Notaries |
|---|---|---|
| Education course | Required | Required (2 hours) |
| Application fee | $21 | $21 |
| Surety bond | $10,000 (new) | $10,000 (new bond) |
| New seal | N/A | Required (new expiration) |
Renewal Process
- Complete education course through SOS portal
- Submit renewal application online
- Pay $21 fee
- Obtain new $10,000 bond (old bond expires with old commission)
- Receive new commission
- Order new seal (reflects new expiration date)
- Take new oath (if required)
Avoiding Commission Gaps
| Best Practice | Why |
|---|---|
| Start renewal early (90 days) | Allow time for processing |
| Complete education first | Required before application |
| Order bond promptly | Required before commission issued |
| Track processing | Follow up if delayed |
If Your Commission Expires
| Scenario | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Notarizing after expiration | Acts are VOID |
| Gap in coverage | Cannot notarize |
| Clients waiting | Must find another notary |
| Restarting | Apply as new applicant |
Name and Address Changes
During your commission:
| Change | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Address change | Notify SOS within 30 days |
| Name change | File amendment with SOS |
| New seal | Required only for name change |
End of Commission
If you choose not to renew:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Journal retention | Keep for 10 years (per SB693) |
| Seal disposal | Destroy or deface |
| Notify clients | If you have regular clients |
Test Your Knowledge
How long is a Texas notary commission valid?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the consequence of notarizing documents after your Texas commission has expired?
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