How to Become a Notary in Connecticut (2026 Guide)
Published February 15, 2023 · Updated May 26, 2026
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Key Takeaways
- No exam or training required
- No surety bond required
- Application fee: $120 | Commission term: 5 years
- Notary stamp required
- Maximum fee: $5 per notarial act
- Must be 18+, a CT resident or working in CT
No exam or training required. Here’s how the process works.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Connecticut or regularly employed in the state
Disqualifying Factors
Connecticut evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis. Criminal history and providing false information can disqualify you.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Complete the Application
Apply online or by mail through the Connecticut Secretary of State. Pay the $120 fee.
Step 2: Receive Your Commission
If approved, you’ll receive your notary commission by mail.
Step 3: Purchase Your Stamp
Connecticut requires a notary stamp.
Costs to Get Commissioned
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $120 |
| No bond required | $0 |
| Notary stamp (required) | $15-$25 |
| Notary journal (recommended) | $10-$50 |
| Total | $145-$195 |
Maximum Allowable Fees
Connecticut sets a maximum of $5 per notarial act (acknowledgments, jurats, and verbal oaths). RON is limited to paper documents only.
Authorized Notarial Acts
- Take acknowledgments
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Execute jurats
- Witness signatures
- Certify copies
- Protest negotiable instruments
Notary Stamp Requirements
Connecticut requires a notary stamp. All notarized documents must bear your official seal.
Notarizing for Family Members
Connecticut does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. Avoid notarizing documents where you have a direct financial or beneficial interest.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
The Secretary of State can revoke your commission for misconduct.
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Not required, but recommended to protect against liability from errors or negligence.
Renewal
5 years. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Connecticut has authorized RON. Check with the Secretary of State for current requirements and registration.
Becoming a Signing Agent
After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program. Connecticut is an attorney state for real estate closings: signing agents should be aware of this limitation.
Connecticut’s $120 fee is one of the highest in the country. Neighboring New York requires an exam but charges $60; Rhode Island charges $80; Massachusetts charges less. The lack of a bond requirement keeps total costs reasonable despite the high application fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a notary exam in Connecticut?
No. Connecticut does not require a notary exam or training course.
Do I need a surety bond in Connecticut?
No. Connecticut does not require a surety bond.
How long does a Connecticut notary commission last?
5 years.
Is a notary stamp required in Connecticut?
Yes. All Connecticut notaries must have a notary stamp.
How much can a Connecticut notary charge?
Connecticut sets a maximum of $5 per notarial act.
Is Connecticut an attorney state for closings?
Yes. This affects signing agents: real estate closings require attorney involvement in Connecticut.
Employer Obligations
- Your notary commission is personal. It does not belong to your employer
- If you leave your job, your stamp and commission go with you
- Your employer cannot require you to skip proper notarization procedures
- An employer who pressures you into misconduct may share legal liability
Related Reading
- How to Become a Notary in New York
- How to Become a Notary in Rhode Island
- How to Become a Notary Signing Agent
Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the Connecticut Secretary of State and CGS Section 3.
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