Key Takeaways
- Texas notaries must use an inked rubber stamp OR embosser seal
- Seal must include: "Notary Public, State of Texas," name, commission number, and expiration date
- Circular seals cannot exceed 2 inches in diameter
- Rectangular seals cannot exceed 1 inch by 2.5 inches
- The seal must have a serrated or milled edge border
Last updated: January 2026
Official Notary Seal Requirements
Your notary seal (stamp) is your official mark that authenticates every notarization. Texas has specific requirements for seal content, size, and format.
Seal Format Options
Texas accepts two seal formats:
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| Inked rubber stamp | Most common, provides clear impression |
| Embosser | Raised seal, acceptable but less common |
Most Texas notaries use an inked rubber stamp because it reproduces clearly on photocopies.
Seal Shape and Size
| Shape | Maximum Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Circular | 2 inches diameter |
| Rectangular | 1 inch high × 2.5 inches wide |
Required Seal Elements
Your Texas notary seal MUST contain:
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| "Notary Public, State of Texas" | Required text around star |
| Star of five points | Texas state symbol |
| Your name | "JANE M. DOE" |
| Commission number | "Commission #12345678" |
| Commission expiration date | "My Commission Expires: 01/15/2030" |
The Five-Point Star
Texas seals uniquely require a star of five points - the Texas Lone Star symbol. This must appear on every seal.
Border Requirement
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Edge type | Serrated OR milled |
| Purpose | Prevents easy forgery |
| Appearance | Textured outer border |
Ink Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Color | Dark, reproducible |
| Acceptable | Black, dark blue |
| Clarity | Must copy clearly |
| Type | Permanent ink |
When to Use Your Seal
Apply your seal to EVERY notarial certificate:
| Document | Seal Required? |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment certificate | YES |
| Jurat certificate | YES |
| Oath/affirmation (with certificate) | YES |
| Deposition certificate | YES |
Seal Security
| Best Practice | Why |
|---|---|
| Keep seal secure | Prevent unauthorized use |
| Never lend seal | You're responsible for all uses |
| Don't leave unattended | Could be misused |
| Transport safely | During mobile notarizations |
When You Need a New Seal
| Situation | New Seal Required? |
|---|---|
| Commission renewal | YES (new expiration date) |
| Name change | YES (new name) |
| Seal damaged | YES (clarity compromised) |
| Seal lost/stolen | YES (immediately) |
On the Exam
Seal questions focus on:
- Required elements: Star, name, commission number, expiration, "Notary Public, State of Texas"
- Size limits: 2" circular or 1" × 2.5" rectangular
- Border: Serrated or milled edge required
- Five-point star: Unique Texas requirement
Test Your Knowledge
What unique symbol must appear on a Texas notary seal?
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B
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D
Test Your Knowledge
What is the maximum diameter for a circular Texas notary seal?
A
B
C
D