3.3 Texas Notary Fees
Key Takeaways
- Maximum fee for acknowledgment: \$6 for first signature, \$1 each additional
- Maximum fee for administering oath: \$6
- Maximum fee for taking deposition: \$6
- Notaries may charge less or nothing at all
- Charging more than maximum is grounds for discipline
Last updated: January 2026
Texas law establishes maximum fees that notaries may charge. Charging more than these amounts can result in disciplinary action.
Maximum Fee Schedule
| Notarial Act | Maximum Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment or proof | |
| - First signature | $6 |
| - Each additional signature | $1 |
| Administering oath with certificate | $6 |
| Taking deposition | $6 |
| Certificate not provided for | $6 |
Fee Rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum | Cannot exceed amounts above |
| Minimum | Can charge less or nothing |
| Per signature | For acknowledgments |
| Travel fees | NOT regulated, can charge extra |
Example Fee Calculations
Example 1: Single Signer Acknowledgment
- First signature: $6
- Total: $6
Example 2: Multiple Signers Acknowledgment
- First signature: $6
- Second signature: $1
- Third signature: $1
- Total: $8
Example 3: Jurat (Oath + Signature)
- Administering oath with certificate: $6
- Total: $6
Travel and Other Fees
| Fee Type | Regulated? |
|---|---|
| Notarial act fees | YES (maximums apply) |
| Travel fees | NO (can set your own) |
| Convenience fees | NO (but be reasonable) |
| After-hours fees | NO (can set your own) |
Important Fee Notes
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Cannot require fee | Refusing because of non-payment is acceptable |
| Cannot refuse based on race, etc. | Discrimination prohibited |
| Must provide receipt if asked | Documentation |
| Record fee in journal | Per SB693 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Problem |
|---|---|
| Charging $10 per signature | Exceeds $6 maximum |
| Charging per page | Fee is per signature |
| Not tracking fees | May need records for audit |
| Overcharging repeat clients | Same rules apply to all |
On the Exam
Fee questions focus on:
- Acknowledgment first signature: $6 maximum
- Additional signatures: $1 each maximum
- Oath with certificate: $6 maximum
- Can charge less: Yes, even free
- Travel fees: Not regulated
Test Your Knowledge
What is the maximum fee a Texas notary can charge for taking an acknowledgment with one signature?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Can a Texas notary charge a travel fee in addition to the notarial act fee?
A
B
C
D