Apostilles and Certificates of Authority

Apostilles and Certificates of Authority are forms that authenticate notaries public who notarize documents to be used outside of the United States of America.

What documents receive Apostilles?

Apostilles are attached to notarized documents being sent to nations that have signed the 1961 Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents. Click on Apostille Countries for a current list.

What documents receive Certificates of Authority?

Certificates of Authority are prepared for notarized documents being sent to nations that have not signed the Hague Convention.

What do I need to obtain an Apostille or Certificate of Authority?

• The document(s) with the original signature and the original impression of the seal or stamp of the Washington State Notary Public whom you wish to have authenticated.
• A $15 fee for each notarization. Make checks payable to the Department of Licensing.
• A cover letter, which must include:
  • The name of the nation where the documents will be sent (we can't authenticate your documents unless we have this information).
  • Your name and address so we can send the documents back to you.
  • Your daytime phone number in case we need to contact you.

How do I get an Apostille or Certificate of Authority?

• Apply in person by taking all the materials listed above to:
  
  Notary Public Program
  Department of Licensing
  405 Black Lake Blvd SW, First floor
  Olympia, WA 98502
• Apply by mail by sending all the materials listed above to:
  
  Notary Public Section
  Business and Professions Division
  Department of Licensing
  PO Box 9027
  Olympia, WA 98507-9027