Notarizing a birth certificate is important for official purposes such as immigration, school enrollment, marriage abroad, passport applications, or legal proceedings. It ensures the document’s authenticity and compliance with legal requirements.
Let’s see what you need to do to get your birth certificate notarized quickly and easily.
Why Notarize a Birth Certificate?
Notarizing a birth certificate confirms its authenticity and ensures it meets legal requirements for official uses. It’s often needed for passport applications, immigration, school enrollment, marriage abroad, or other legal processes, especially when an apostille is required.
What You Need to Notarize a Birth Certificate?
To notarize a birth certificate in Oregon, you need the following:
- A Certified Copy of the Birth Certificate:
Obtain this from the Oregon Health Authority (Vital Records Office). Original vital records cannot be notarized. - A Notarized Statement (if notarizing a copy):
Write a statement declaring the attached document is a true copy of the original. - Government-Issued Photo ID:
Bring valid identification like a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity. - A Notary Public:
Meet with a licensed notary to sign the statement or certify the document in their presence.
For international use, you may also need an apostille from the Oregon Secretary of State. Notaries can be found in:
- Notary Offices: Independent notaries with their own businesses.
- Banks: Many offer free notarization to customers.
- Law Offices: Attorneys often offer notarization services.
- Mobile Notaries: If you can’t go to a notary, they’ll come to you.
- Online Notaries: In some states, remote notarization via video is available.
5. Sign the document in Front of the Notary
Do not sign the document before meeting the notary. The notary must witness the signature. This confirms that you are signing voluntarily and understand the document.
Steps to Notarize a Birth Certificate
Get a Certified Copy: Make sure it’s a government-issued, certified copy of your birth certificate.
Bring Valid ID: You must have a government-issued photo ID to confirm your identity.
Find a Notary: Choose a notary from the available options.
Sign in front of the Notary: Sign the birth certificate in front of the notary. This is required for notarization.
Pay the Fee: Notary fees typically is up to $10 per document notarized. Mobile services may have extra fees.
Receive the notarized document: You’ll get your notarized birth certificate—either in physical form or as a digital copy, depending on the service.
Things to Keep in Mind
Notaries Don’t Verify Content: Notaries do not check if the birth certificate has correct information. They only confirm the authenticity of your signature.
Check Requirements: Different organizations may have specific requirements for notarized documents. Always confirm if you need extra steps, like an apostille.
Make Copies: Once notarized, make copies for your records. You may need them for future use.
Conclusion
Notarizing a birth certificate is quick and easy. With the right documents and a qualified notary, you can get it done in no time. Whether you need a notarized birth certificate for immigration, legal matters, or a passport, following these steps ensures it’s valid and legally recognized.
If you are looking to get a notary quickly and easily, we are here to help! Contact PDX Signing one of the best mobile notary services in Portland today to schedule your notarization or to learn more about our services.
