County Clerk Notarial Records – New York, NY

New York County Clerk Notarial Services

Authentication and Commissioning

The Notarial Records division of the New York County Clerk, located in the basement of the New York State Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street (Room 141B), is the central authority for verifying the credentials of notaries public in Manhattan. This office plays a critical role in the legalization of documents for international use. When a document notarized in New York County needs an apostille or authentication for use abroad, the notary’s signature must first be authenticated here before proceeding to the New York State Department of State. Additionally, this division handles the renewal of notary commissions for those qualified in New York County and issues Certificates of Official Character, which verify a notary’s status.

Operational Details and Visiting

The office operates within the historic 60 Centre Street courthouse, a landmark Beaux-Arts building. Visitors must pass through strict security screening, including magnetometers and x-ray machines for bags. While mobile phones are generally allowed, they must be silenced, and photography is strictly prohibited inside the courthouse. The Notary Section accepts payments via cash, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and postal money orders. Personal checks are typically not accepted for these services. The office provides a vital link in the chain of document verification, ensuring that notarized acts are legally binding and recognized both domestically and internationally.

Key Services

• Signature Authentication: Verifies the signature of a notary public for apostille/authentication applications.
• Commission Renewal: Processes four-year renewal applications for New York County notaries.
• Certificate of Official Character: Issues certification of a notary’s standing and authority.
• Oaths of Office: Administers oaths for newly commissioned notaries and public officials.