Texas Passport Copy Apostille
Need an apostille for your passport? In Texas, you cannot just notarize a photocopy. You must follow the "Copy Certification by Document Custodian" process.
At a Glance — 2026 Snapshot
| Processing Time (Mail) | 3-4 Months (Delays) |
|---|---|
| Fastest Option | Walk-In (Austin) or using our expedited service |
| State Fee | $15.00 per document |
| Key Requirement | Custodian Affidavit Notary certifies YOUR signature, not the copy itself. |
| Top Rejection Reason | Notary certifying the copy directly |
Critical Requirements
Texas law prohibits notaries from certifying copies of public records or documents that can be recorded (like passports). Instead, you must use a specific procedure where YOU certify the copy in front of the notary.
The "True Copy" Rule
A Texas notary CANNOT stamp your passport copy with "Certified True Copy."
Instead, you must sign a statement saying "I, [Your Name], certify that this is a true and correct copy of my passport..." and the notary will notarize YOUR signature on that statement.
MUST HAVE
- Color Photocopy: Clear, color copy of the photo page.
- Custodian Affidavit: Signed statement by you.
- County Clerk Seal: Authenticating the notary.
CANNOT ACCEPT
- Direct Notary Certification: Notaries cannot certify the copy.
- Black & White Copies: Often rejected by foreign countries.
- Missing County Step: Notary stamp alone is not enough.
The 3-Step Apostille Process
Copy Certification by Document Custodian
Make a color photocopy of your passport. Write or type a statement on the copy (or attached to it): "I certify that this is a true and correct copy of the original document in my possession." Sign this in front of a Texas Notary Public.
County Clerk Authentication
Take the notarized document to the County Clerk's office in the county where the notary is commissioned. They will verify the notary's signature and attach an authentication page.
State Apostille
Submit the document (now with Notary + County Clerk seals) to the Texas Secretary of State with Form 2102 and the $15 fee.
Get the submission formOfficial Resources
Use these official government links to find the correct County Clerk for authentication.
Major County Clerk Offices (For Authentication)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Notary Certifying the Copy If the notary writes "I certify this is a true copy," it will be rejected. The statement must come from YOU.
-
Skipping the County Clerk Just like other notarized documents, you must get County Clerk authentication before sending it to the State.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Mobile Notary?
Yes, as long as they are a commissioned Texas Notary Public. They will notarize your signature on the "Custodian Affidavit."
Do I need to copy all pages?
Usually, only the photo/signature page is required. However, some countries may require a copy of the entire passport. Check with the requesting authority.
Can I mail it directly to the State?
No. You must send it to the County Clerk first for authentication. If you skip this step, the State will reject your document.
"Texas notaries CANNOT certify passport copies directly. You must use the 'Document Custodian' method to avoid rejection."