At the time a contractor registers with the commissioner, the contractor shall make an appointment in writing of the Secretary of State or his successor in office to be his true and lawful agent upon whom may be served all lawful process in any action or proceeding against the nonresident contractor for state and local taxes arising out of any contract executed or being executed in this state. The appointment shall be evidence of the contractor's agreement that any process against him which is served on the Secretary of State shall be of the same legal force and validity as if served upon him personally within the state.