Records you must keep
Texas requires a notary to keep records of notarizations. The exact required fields are still being verified, so check Texas Government Code chapter 406 and the Secretary of State.
Ten-year retention from 2025
Since September 1, 2025, records must be kept until the tenth anniversary of the notarization. SB 693 adds Gov Code 406.014(g), and failure to keep records is a ground for revocation under 406.009(a)(6) (SB 693 bill text).
Public records and copies
Whether others can request copies of your entries is still being verified. Check the Texas Secretary of State before answering a request.
Fees
Check the Texas Secretary of State for the current maximum fees, because fees can be adjusted over time.
Electronic records
Whether and how a Texas notary may keep records electronically is still being verified. Check the Secretary of State before using an app as your only record.
What SB 693 changed
SB 693 also creates an offense for notarizing a person who is not personally appearing, with an affirmative defense tied to ID, and adds education requirements (SB 693 bill text). Read the bill for the details.
Not legal advice. Check your state's official notary handbook or commissioning office.
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