Purchase Guidelines

Notary Fees

As of Sept. 1, 2002, state employees designated by a state agency to be a notary public are no longer required to purchase a notary bond (H.B. 1203). All other notary regulations must be followed. The state provides defense and indemnification to a state employee for damages, attorney's fees, and court costs adjudged against them when the damages are based on an act or omission in the course and scope of the person's employment (Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 104.001). Therefore, when notarizing documents outside the course and scope of your work duties, you will not have the protection for your actions unless you personally purchase the notary bond.

All notary applications are to be submitted to the State Office of Risk Management with a check for $11.00 made payable to the Secretary of State. Procedures and applications can be found at the State Office of Risk Management website.