If you're considering a career as a Texas process server, you're in the right place. Becoming a certified process server opens the door to flexible work, good pay, and the opportunity to play a vital role in the legal system. In Texas, however, you can’t just jump into it — you must meet specific state requirements to serve civil process legally.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to become a certified process server in Texas — without the confusion or wasted time.

What Is a Process Server?

A process server is someone authorized to deliver legal documents to individuals involved in court proceedings. These documents could be anything from subpoenas to lawsuits to court summons. Process servers ensure that due process is upheld, meaning everyone involved has official notice of legal action against them.

Do You Have to Be Certified to Serve Process in Texas?

Yes. Under Rule 103 and Rule 536(a) of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, you must be certified by the Judicial Branch Certification Commission (JBCC) if you want to serve civil process in Texas courts. You cannot just serve papers as a regular citizen unless you are specially exempt (e.g., sheriffs, constables, certain attorneys).

Requirements to Become a Process Server in Texas

To become a certified process server in Texas, you must:

Be 18 years of age or older
Complete an approved civil process service training course
Submit an online application through the JBCC
Pay the required state application fees
Undergo a fingerprint background check

Important:You do NOT have to work for a process serving company first. Once you’re certified, you can start your own process service business or work independently.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Training Course

Texas requires all prospective process servers to take a civil process service training course approved by the JBCC.The course must be at least 7 hours long and cover all relevant laws, procedures, and ethical rules.

At CODEX Educational & Legal Services, we offer a state-approved online training course that you can complete on your schedule — no in-person class required. Our course satisfies all JBCC education requirements and provides your certificate of completion.

👉 Get Certified with CODEX

Step 2: Submit Your Online Application to the JBCC

Once you finish your training, you’ll submit your application through the JBCC online licensing portal.

Your application must include:

Proof of course completion (your certificate)
Completed fingerprint background check
Payment of the current application fee (approximately $200)

The JBCC will review your application and run your background check before issuing your certification.

Step 3: Complete a Fingerprint Background Check

Texas requires all new process server applicants to complete fingerprinting for a criminal background check. You’ll receive instructions on how to complete this after starting your JBCC application.

Pro Tip: Do not delay this step — your application can’t move forward without cleared fingerprints.

Step 4: Get Your Certification and Start Working

Once you are approved by the JBCC, you will receive your Process Server Certification. You can now legally serve civil process across Texas.

Your certification is valid for 2 years. Before it expires, you must complete continuing education (CE) hours and renew your certification through the JBCC.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Process Server in Texas?

Typically, you can complete your training in one day and submit your application immediately after. Depending on how quickly you complete fingerprinting and how fast the JBCC processes your application, you can be fully certified in 2 to 4 weeks. Some background checks may take longer to process, so please be patient.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Process Server in Texas?

Here's a breakdown of the expected costs:

Item	Estimated Cost
Approved Training Course	$100-$150
JBCC Application Fee	~$200
Fingerprinting	~$40
Total Estimated Cost	$340–$390

Can You Be Denied Certification?

Yes.The JBCC may deny your certification if:

You have a felony conviction
You have certain misdemeanor convictions (especially those involving dishonesty, violence, or moral turpitude)
You fail to complete the background check or required training properly

Each application is reviewed individually.

Why Become a Process Server in Texas?

Texas is one of the best states to launch a process serving career. Here’s why:

Strong Demand: Legal cases are steady across Texas counties.
Flexibility: You can work part-time or full-time.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Start your own process serving company.
Good Earning Potential: Average rates range from $65–$125 per serve.

Ready to Start Your Process Serving Career?

At CODEX Educational & Legal Services, we make becoming a process server easy, affordable, and fast. Our state-approved course is designed to give you all the tools you need to pass certification and launch your career.

✅ 100% Online

✅ JBCC-Approved Training

✅ Certificate Issued Immediately Upon Completion

✅ Learn at Your Own Pace

👉 Enroll Today and Start Your Certification

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified process server in Texas is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. With the legal field always in need of reliable process servers, it’s a career path full of opportunity.

Complete your training, get certified, and start building your future — one serve at a time.

How to Become a Certified Process Server in Texas | Step-by-Step 2025 Guide