Surety Bonds in Houston, TX — Search, Quote & Buy Online Instantly
My Insurance Agency, LLC partners with Propeller Bonds to offer a fully self-serve bond portal. Find any bond you need — contractor, dealer, notary, freight broker, court bonds & more — and get your certificate in minutes.
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A surety bond is a legally required financial guarantee that protects clients, government agencies, and the public if a business or individual fails to fulfill their contractual or licensing obligations. My Insurance Agency, LLC makes getting bonded simple and fast through our partnership with Propeller Bonds — a fully self-serve platform where you can search for any bond type, get an instant quote, and purchase your bond online with immediate digital delivery in most cases.
We offer bonds for contractors, auto dealers, notaries, freight brokers, court proceedings, employee fidelity, TABC licensing, mortgage brokers, and more — all across Texas. Not sure which bond you need? Call us at 832-433-4587 and we will help you identify the exact requirement.
Una fianza de garantía (surety bond) es una garantía financiera legalmente requerida que protege a clientes, agencias gubernamentales y al público si una empresa o individuo no cumple con sus obligaciones contractuales o de licencia.
En My Insurance Agency, LLC, facilitamos el proceso a través de nuestra asociación con Propeller Bonds — una plataforma donde puede buscar cualquier tipo de fianza, obtener una cotización instantánea y comprar su fianza en línea, con entrega digital inmediata en la mayoría de los casos.
Ofrecemos fianzas para contratistas, concesionarios de automóviles, notarios, corredores de carga, procedimientos judiciales, empleados y más — en todo Texas. ¿No sabe qué tipo de fianza necesita? Llámenos al 832-433-4587 y le ayudaremos a identificar el requisito exacto. Se habla español.
Bond Types
Contractor License Bonds
Who needs it: General contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC, roofers, home improvement contractors in Texas
Typical cost: $100–$300/year for a $10,000–$25,000 bond
Required by many Texas cities and counties to obtain a contractor license. Protects clients if the contractor fails to complete work or violates licensing laws.
Auto Dealer Bonds (GDN Bond)
Who needs it: Anyone applying for a Texas Dealer License (GDN) to sell, buy, or exchange motor vehicles
Typical cost: $25,000 bond — typically $200–$500/year premium
The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles requires all licensed motor vehicle dealers to carry a $25,000 surety bond (GDN bond) as part of the dealer license application.
Notary Public Bonds
Who needs it: All Texas notaries public — required by the Texas Secretary of State
Typical cost: $10,000 bond — typically $30–$60 for a 4-year term
Texas law requires every commissioned notary public to obtain a $10,000 surety bond before receiving their commission. It protects the public against errors or misconduct by the notary.
Freight Broker Bonds (BMC-84)
Who needs it: All FMCSA-licensed freight brokers and freight forwarders operating in the US
Typical cost: $75K bond — typically $900–$3k/year based on credit
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all freight brokers to maintain a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond or trust fund agreement. Required to obtain or renew your freight broker operating authority.
Court & Judicial Bonds
Who needs it: Parties in legal proceedings — executors, administrators, guardians, appellants, plaintiffs
Typical cost: Varies widely by bond type and amount — typically 1%–3% of bond value per year
Court bonds are required by courts to guarantee obligations in legal matters. Types include appeal bonds, executor bonds, administrator bonds, guardian bonds, injunction bonds, and replevin bonds.
Fidelity Bonds (Employee Dishonesty)
Who needs it: Businesses with employees who handle money, valuables, or have access to client property
Typical cost: Typically $150–$500/year for $10,000–$100,000 coverage
Fidelity bonds protect businesses from financial losses caused by dishonest or fraudulent acts by employees, such as theft, embezzlement, or forgery. Also known as an employee dishonesty bond or business services bond.
TABC Bonds (Texas Alcohol & Beverage)
Who needs it: Businesses applying for a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) license or permit
Typical cost: Varies by license type and county — typically $1,000–$10,000 bond value
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission requires certain licensees and permittees to obtain a surety bond as part of the licensing process. Required for package stores, bars, distributors, and manufacturers.
Mortgage Broker & Lender Bonds
Who needs it: Licensed Texas mortgage brokers, residential mortgage loan originators, and mortgage companies
Typical cost: $50,000–$500,000 bond — premium varies by credit and loan volume
The Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending requires mortgage brokers and lenders to carry a surety bond as part of licensing. Bond amount scales with annual loan volume.
Lost Title Bonds (Vehicle Title Bonds)
Who needs it: Vehicle owners who have lost their title and cannot obtain a replacement from the DMV
Typical cost: Bond = 1.5x the vehicle value — premium typically $100–$200
A Texas bonded title allows you to get a new vehicle title when the original is lost, stolen, or was never properly transferred to you. Required by TxDMV when a standard title replacement is not possible.
Performance & Payment Bonds
Who needs it: Contractors bidding on government or large commercial construction projects
Typical cost: Typically 1%–3% of the contract value
Performance bonds guarantee that a contractor will complete a project according to the contract terms. Payment bonds guarantee that subcontractors and suppliers will be paid. Both are typically required for public construction projects over $25,000 in Texas.
Bid Bonds
Who needs it: Contractors submitting bids on government or commercial construction projects
Typical cost: Usually free or nominal cost — provided as part of bonding relationship
A bid bond guarantees that if a contractor wins a bid, they will enter into the contract and provide the required performance and payment bonds. Protects the project owner from contractors who win and then back out.
Commercial Service & Janitorial Bonds
Who needs it: Cleaning companies, home service businesses, landscapers, and anyone working in client homes or offices
Typical cost: Typically $100–$300/year
A business service bond (sometimes called a janitorial bond) protects your clients against theft or property damage caused by your employees. Many clients require it before allowing your staff into their property.
FAQ
Do I need a contractor bond in Texas?
Texas does not have a statewide contractor license, but many cities including Houston, Dallas, and Austin require contractors to be bonded. Check with your local municipality. We recommend carrying a bond regardless — it builds client trust.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in Texas?
Most Texas contractor bonds cost between $100 and $300 per year, depending on the bond amount required and your credit score. Apply instantly through our Propeller Bonds portal.
What is a GDN bond in Texas?
A GDN (General Distinguishing Number) bond is a $25,000 surety bond required by TxDMV for all licensed motor vehicle dealers in Texas. It protects consumers and the state if a dealer engages in fraudulent practices.
How fast can I get an auto dealer bond in Texas?
Through the Propeller Bonds self-serve portal, you can get approved and receive your bond certificate in minutes. Click the link above to search for your auto dealer bond now.
Is a notary bond required in Texas?
Yes. The Texas Secretary of State requires all notaries public to obtain a $10,000 surety bond as a condition of receiving their notary commission. The bond must be obtained before your commission is issued.
How much does a Texas notary bond cost?
A Texas notary bond typically costs between $30 and $60 for a 4-year commission term — one of the most affordable bonds available. Get yours instantly through the Propeller Bonds portal.
What is a BMC-84 freight broker bond?
The BMC-84 is a $75,000 surety bond required by the FMCSA for all licensed freight brokers. It guarantees that the broker will pay carriers and shippers according to their agreements.
How much does a freight broker bond cost?
The cost of a BMC-84 bond depends heavily on your credit score. Those with good credit typically pay $900–$1,800/year. Those with challenged credit may pay more. Search for your rate instantly at the Propeller Bonds portal.
What types of court bonds are available in Texas?
Texas courts require various bond types including: appeal bonds (to appeal a court judgment), executor/administrator bonds (to manage an estate), guardian bonds (to manage the affairs of a minor or incapacitated person), and injunction bonds. Each is specific to the legal proceeding.
How quickly can I get a court bond in Texas?
Many court bonds can be issued same-day through the Propeller Bonds portal. The bond amount is set by the court, and our platform lets you search and apply instantly.
What is a fidelity bond and who needs it?
A fidelity bond protects your business against losses from employee dishonesty including theft, fraud, or embezzlement. Cleaning companies, home service businesses, accounting firms, and any business where employees handle cash or access client property should carry one.
Is a fidelity bond the same as a business service bond?
They are closely related. A business service bond (also called a janitorial bond) specifically covers dishonest acts by employees working at client locations. A fidelity bond is broader and also covers in-house theft and embezzlement.
Do I need a bond for a Texas liquor license?
Many TABC license and permit types require a surety bond. The specific bond amount depends on your license type and location. Use the Propeller Bonds portal to search for your specific TABC bond requirement.
Is a surety bond required for a Texas mortgage license?
Yes. The Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending requires mortgage brokers, residential mortgage loan originators (RMLOs), and mortgage companies to carry a surety bond. The required amount depends on your license type and loan volume.
How do I get a bonded title in Texas?
If TxDMV cannot issue a replacement title through normal channels, you can obtain a bonded title. You need a surety bond for 1.5 times the vehicle's current market value. After 3 years with no claims on the bond, TxDMV issues a clean title.
How much does a Texas vehicle title bond cost?
The bond amount is set at 1.5x the vehicle's appraised value. The premium (what you pay) is typically $100–$200 for most vehicles. Search for yours instantly at the Propeller Bonds portal.
When is a performance bond required in Texas?
Texas law (Chapter 2253 of the Government Code) requires performance and payment bonds on public works contracts over $25,000. Many private owners also require them. The bond protects the project owner if the contractor defaults.
How much does a performance bond cost in Texas?
Performance bonds typically cost 1%–3% of the total contract value. A $500,000 project bond might cost $5,000–$15,000 depending on the contractor's financials and experience.
What is a bid bond and do I need one in Texas?
A bid bond is required when submitting bids on most government construction projects and many private ones. It guarantees you will sign the contract if awarded. Typically set at 5%–10% of the bid amount.
Do cleaning companies need to be bonded in Texas?
While not always legally required, being bonded is a strong competitive advantage. Many commercial and residential clients in Houston will only hire bonded cleaning and service companies. It shows professionalism and protects everyone.
Can I get a surety bond with bad credit in Texas?
Yes. Many bond types are available to applicants with challenged credit, though the premium will be higher. Through the Propeller Bonds portal, you can get an instant quote based on your actual credit profile. We also work with specialty surety markets for difficult-to-place bonds. Call us at 713-213-9593.
How fast can I get a surety bond in Texas?
Many bond types through the Propeller Bonds self-serve portal are issued instantly or within the same business day. You can search, quote, pay, and download your bond certificate online at any time. For more complex bonds like performance and payment bonds, the process may take 2–5 business days.
What is the difference between a surety bond and insurance?
Insurance protects you (the policyholder) from losses. A surety bond protects the obligee (the government, your client, or the public) from losses caused by your failure to perform. If a surety bond claim is paid, the bond company will seek reimbursement from you — unlike insurance where claims are final.
Do I need a bond AND insurance for my Texas business?
Often yes. Many licensing requirements call for both a surety bond AND general liability insurance. For example, a contractor may need a $10,000 license bond AND a $1,000,000 general liability policy. My Insurance Agency, LLC can help you get both — call 713-213-9593.