How Does It Work?

The certification of a copy is a process in which a notary public officially verifies that a reproduced document is an exact replica of the original. To obtain this certification, clients need to provide the original document to the notary. The client may also provide the copy, but the notary may furnish the copy, if requested. This is the preferred option.

The notary will carefully compare the two documents to ensure they are identical. Once this is confirmed, a notarial certificate will be issued, and the details of the act will be recorded in the notarial journal. This certification is important as it provides legal recognition and authentication to the copy, making it valid and reliable for various purposes.

What Copies Can Be Certified?

Such documents may include:

• Baptismal Certificates

• Certificates of Completion

• Diploma

• Drivers License

• Medical Records/Consent/Waiver

• Parental Consent

• Passport

• Personal Letter

• Power of Attorney

• Public Record

• Social Security Card

• Transcript

• Waiver/Release

• Military Discharge (DD214)

• Medical Record

• Resident Alien (Green) Card

• Vehicle Title

• Bill of Sale

Pricing for certified copies varies according to the document.

State Regulated Notarization Fees for Certified Copies are $5

Administrative, Clerical & Travel Fees Are In Addition To State Regulated Notarization Fees

A Notary Public CANNOT Certify A Copy Of:

• Birth Certificates

• Death Certificates

• Naturalization Certificates.

Please contact the Division of Vital Records for more information on these documents.

A Notary Public CANNOT certify copies of documents that explicitly state “Do Not Copy” or related wording.

Documents intended to be sent overseas will need to be issued by their original office, and certified by the Department of State.