Connecticut Notary (Secretary of the State) – Hartford, CT

Connecticut Secretary of the State: Notary Public Unit

Commissioning and Authentication Services

The Notary Public Unit is a vital division within the Connecticut Office of the Secretary of the State. Located in the renovated State Office Building at 165 Capitol Avenue, this department is responsible for the commissioning of all notaries public in Connecticut. It maintains the official records of these appointed officials and ensures they adhere to state laws regarding the authentication of documents. The unit plays a central role in legal and business transactions across the state by authorizing individuals to witness signatures and administer oaths.

Key Services Provided

In addition to managing notary commissions, this office handles international document authentications. Key functions include:

• Notary Commissions: Processing applications for new notary appointments, renewals, and changes of name or address for existing notaries.
• Apostilles and Authentications: Certifying documents for use in foreign countries (Apostilles for Hague Convention countries and Certifications for non-members). This includes birth certificates, marriage licenses, and business documents.
• Notary Search: Maintaining a public database where citizens can verify the active status of a notary public.
• Notary Manual: Publishing the official Connecticut Notary Public Manual, which serves as the primary resource for state notary laws and procedures.

Location and Access

The office is situated in the historic, yet modernized, State Office Building near Bushnell Park. While many services, such as license renewals, can be conducted online through the Business One Stop portal, the physical office is open for specific filing needs and authentications. Visitors must pass through security screening at the main entrance. For Apostille services, the office often provides same-day service for walk-ins, though checking current operational policies is recommended.