What document is issued by the secretary of state to officially appoint a notary public?

The document that is issued by the secretary of state to officially appoint a notary public is a commission. This commission serves as the formal authorization that allows an individual to act as a notary and perform notarial acts, which include witnessing signatures, administering oaths, and acknowledging documents.

The commission outlines the specific terms of the appointment, including the notary’s role, responsibilities, and the duration of the appointment. It is critical for the notary to keep this commission on hand as proof of their authority to perform notarial duties in the state of Illinois. In contrast, the other options, such as a contract or a deed, do not pertain to the appointment process of a notary public, and credential analysis is a procedure that evaluates qualifications or identities rather than serving as an official appointment document.