How to become a notary in Connecticut
Notaries in Connecticut are commissioned by the Office of the Secretary of the State, Business Services Division. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in Connecticut?
- At least 18 years old
- Lives in Connecticut or has a principal place of business there
- Certificate of Character from an unrelated public official or professional who has known you at least one year
- Pass the exam built into the application
What are the Connecticut notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Office of the Secretary of the State, Business Services Division |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No course is required; review the Notary Public Manual, which the exam is based on. |
| Exam required | Yes. The exam is part of the online application, taken under oath; every question must be answered correctly. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $120 (new); $60 renewal; waived for active state employees |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: Public Act 23-28 authorized remote notarial acts effective October 1, 2023. |
Steps to become a notary in Connecticut
- Review the Notary Public Manual
- Complete a handwritten Jurat and Writing Sample and have it sworn before an official
- Have someone complete your Certificate of Character
- Apply on eLicense.ct.gov (Initial Application > Notary Public Certification), pass the exam and pay $120
- Receive your certificate by email (typically 3-5 business days)
- Within 30 days, take the oath and record the certificate with the town clerk where you live (or where your Connecticut business is)
Apply on the official Connecticut site
How do you find a notary in Connecticut?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Connecticut notary lookup.