Frequently Asked Questions

💡 General Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an appointment?

Appointments can be scheduled online in about a minute by selecting a time that works best for you.

👉 View Appointment Availability

What happens after I book an appointment?

A confirmation will be sent with appointment details and any instructions needed to prepare.

Where do appointments take place?

Appointments are completed at your location, so there’s no need to travel or wait at an office.

Meetings can take place at home, office, hospital, or another preferred location, with everything handled in one visit whenever possible.

What areas do you serve in Orange County?

Mobile appointments are available in all cities throughout Orange County, California, including Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, and surrounding areas.

How soon can I schedule an appointment?

Appointments can often be scheduled with as little as 2 hours’ notice, depending on availability.

Same-day appointments may be available, and urgent requests may be accommodated when possible.

What should I have ready for my appointment?

Requirements depend on the service being completed. In general, have your documents or required forms ready, along with a valid, physical government-issued photo ID.

For example, notarizations require the documents and valid identification, while Live Scan fingerprinting requires a Request for Live Scan Service form and valid identification. Documents or forms can be printed during the appointment so everything can be completed in one visit.

👉 See our Live Scan ID Guide.

👉 See our Notary ID Guide.

What if I'm not sure what I need?

If you’re not sure what’s needed, feel free to reach out so we can understand what you’re trying to accomplish and help point you in the right direction.

What forms of payment do you accept?

A variety of payment methods are accepted to make the process as convenient as possible.

Payment can be made using cash, Zelle, debit cards, credit cards, mobile payments such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, ACH transfers, or business checks.

Payment timing will be confirmed before the appointment based on the service being completed.

Is there a fee for credit card payments?

Credit card payments include a small 3% surcharge to cover standard transaction costs.

There are no additional fees when using other payment methods such as cash, Zelle, debit, ACH transfers, or business checks.

What are your hours?

Appointments are available daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

If you need a different time, flexible scheduling may be available depending on availability.

Ready to get started?

Appointments can be scheduled in about a minute, with everything handled at your location for a smooth and convenient experience.

🖋️ Notary Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mobile notary?

A notary public is a state-appointed official who serves as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents, verifies identity, and helps prevent fraud.

Their role is to confirm that signers are properly identified, willing to sign, and aware of what they are signing. They also administer oaths and complete the notarial act with an official stamp or seal.

A mobile notary provides that same service, but travels directly to your location to complete the appointment.

Instead of going to a bank or office, everything is handled wherever it’s most convenient—at home, an office, a hospital, or another location.

The appointment is completed in a private, one-on-one setting, without the need to drive anywhere or coordinate multiple steps.

What types of documents can be notarized?

A California notary can notarize many common documents, as long as the signer appears in person and the document is complete.

Common examples include:

• Real estate documents, such as deeds and transfer forms
• Powers of attorney and advance health care directives
• Affidavits, declarations, and sworn statements
• Contracts, agreements, and business forms
• Travel consent forms and other personal authorization documents

If your document requires notarization, it will be completed during the appointment.

Are there any documents that cannot be notarized?

Certain documents cannot be notarized under California law.

This includes vital records such as birth, death, or marriage certificates, as well as most document copies like passports or diplomas. Notarizations also cannot be completed if the document is incomplete or if the signer is not physically present.

If your document falls into one of these categories, it can be reviewed to determine the best way to proceed.

What is copy certification by document custodian?

Copy certification by document custodian is a notarized statement from the person who holds the original document, confirming that a copy is true and accurate.

This method is commonly used in California because notaries are generally not allowed to certify copies of documents directly.

Important exception

A California notary can certify copies of powers of attorney.

In this case, the notary confirms that the copy is a true and correct copy of the original power of attorney after comparing both documents.

When is this used?

This is used when a copy needs to be certified, but the notary is not permitted to certify the document directly.

It may be used when the original document is in the signer’s possession and they can personally confirm the accuracy of the copy.

Can a document be notarized remotely or online?

In California, notarizations must be completed in person. The signer is required to physically appear before the notary at the time of the notarization.

Remote or online notarization is not currently permitted for California notaries.

Mobile appointments allow everything to be completed at your location, without the need to visit an office or wait in line.

What is required for a notarization in California?

To complete a notarization in California, the signer must:

• Appear in person before the notary
• Provide valid physical identification
• Be willing to sign the document
• Be aware and understand what they are signing
• Have a complete document

These requirements are in place to ensure the notarization is performed properly and in compliance with California law.

What kind of identification is required for notarization?

A valid, physical government-issued photo ID is required for each signer.

The ID must be current or issued no more than 5 years.

Common acceptable forms of ID include driver’s licenses, state ID cards, and passports.

Digital IDs or photos of an ID cannot be accepted.

👉 For full identification requirements, see our Notary ID Guide.

What if a signer does not have identification?

If a signer does not have an acceptable ID, California law allows the use of two credible witnesses to verify identity.

What are credible witnesses?

Credible witnesses are individuals who personally know the signer and can confirm the signers identity to the notary.

Each credible witness must:

• Personally know the signer
• Present their own valid, acceptable ID

•Be present at the time of the appointment.
• Be impartial (not named in or benefiting from the document)
• Take an oath or affirmation before the notary

What do credible witnesses swear to under oath?

Each witness must swear or affirm that all of the following are true:

1. You are the person named in the document

2. They personally know you

3. They believe it would be difficult or impossible for you to obtain acceptable identification

4. You do not possess any of the identification documents required by law

5. They are not named in the document and have no financial interest in it

Do I need to sign the document before the appointment?

No. Documents should not be signed before the appointment. Bring the document completed, but leave all signatures blank. The document will be signed at the time of notarization, after identity has been verified.

Do I need witnesses for my document?

Some documents require witnesses, while others do not. Common examples include last wills and certain estate planning documents.

When are witnesses required?

Witnesses may be required in situations such as:

• Last wills, which typically require two disinterested witnesses
• When a signer is unable to write their name and uses signature by mark (such as an “X”)

If witnesses are required, it will usually be indicated within the document or provided by the attorney or agency that prepared it.

Can witnesses be provided?

If witnesses are needed, this can often be coordinated in advance so everything is completed in one visit.

What is a signature by mark?

A signature by mark is used when a person is unable to write their name due to a physical limitation, injury, or other condition. Instead of a full signature, the signer makes a mark on the document

What are the requirements for a signature by mark?

For a signature by mark in California:

• The signer must make the mark in the presence of the notary
• Two witnesses must be present
• Both witnesses must sign the document
• One witness must write the signer’s name next to the mark

The signer must still be properly identified before the notarization is completed.

What can a notary not do?

A California notary must remain impartial and follow specific legal guidelines when performing notarizations.

A notary cannot provide legal advice, prepare or choose legal documents, or proceed with a notarization if the signer is not present or cannot be properly identified.

Limitations include:

• Providing legal advice or guidance on documents
• Preparing, drafting, or selecting legal documents
• Notarizing their own signature or documents
• Notarizing documents where they have a financial or personal interest
• Proceeding without valid identification
• Notarizing incomplete documents or documents with blank spaces
• Notarizing if the signer is not physically present
• Notarizing documents that are false, deceptive, or unlawful
• Certifying copies of vital records such as birth, death, or marriage certificates

Why this matters

These guidelines are in place to protect all parties and ensure notarizations are completed properly and in compliance with California law.

If guidance is needed regarding documents, it is recommended to consult with a licensed attorney.

How much does mobile notary service cost?

Pricing is based on the number of notarized signatures, along with travel to your location and any additional services needed for the appointment.

Notary pricing

Mobile notary appointments start at $75 and include travel throughout Orange County, one notarized signature, and document services under 50 pages.

Additional notarizations are $15 per signature.

How pricing works

Notary fees are based on the number of signatures requiring notarization, not simply the number of pages or documents.

Some documents require only one notarization, while others may include multiple notarized signatures across one or more documents.

Additional services such as witnesses, courier service, extended travel, or larger document handling may affect the final price.

For full pricing details

For a complete breakdown of pricing, including travel ranges and additional services, you can view the full pricing page.

How do I know if my document needs to be notarized?

The easiest way to tell is to check the document or confirm with the person or agency requesting it.

A notary cannot determine whether a document requires notarization, but it can be identified by reviewing the document itself.

What should I look for?

Documents that require notarization usually include a notary section, often called a notarial certificate.

Look for:

• A section with space for a notary signature and seal
• Phrases such as “Subscribed and sworn to before me” or “Acknowledged before me”
• Instructions to “affix notary seal”

Common documents that often require notarization

• Real estate documents (deeds, loan documents)
• Power of attorney and trust documents
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Financial and legal authorization forms
• Travel consent forms

How long does a notary appointment take?

Most notary appointments take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of documents and notarizations required.

What affects the timing?

The length of an appointment can vary based on:

• The number of notarized signatures
• The number of pages or documents
• Whether printing or scanning is needed
• Whether witnesses are required

More involved appointments, such as estate plan signings or larger document packages, may take longer.

What to expect

Appointments are scheduled with enough time to complete everything properly and in one visit, even for larger or more detailed signings.

Can you print or scan my documents during the appointment?

Yes. Documents can be printed, scanned, and handled on-site during the appointment.

What can be done on-site?

• Print documents if needed
• Scan completed documents
• Send digital copies by email
• Make copies of IDs or other supporting documents

This allows everything to be completed in one visit without additional steps or extra trips.

Can you notarize documents at hospitals or care facilities?

Yes. Notary appointments can be completed at hospitals, assisted living facilities, and care homes.

What are the requirements for notarization?

For any notarization to be completed, the signer must:

• Be physically present
• Be aware and willing to sign
• Be able to communicate and understand the document
• Present valid identification

What to expect

These appointments are handled with extra time and care to ensure everything is completed properly and respectfully.

Ready to get started?

Appointments are completed at your location and can be scheduled in about a minute.

🪪 Notary Identification Guide

What identification is required for a notarization in California?

A valid, physical government-issued photo ID is required for each signer.

The ID must be current or expired no more than 5 years and include a photo, signature, physical description and identifying information.

Common acceptable forms of ID include driver’s licenses, state ID cards, and passports.

What identification is required for a notarization?

A notary must verify the identity of each signer using valid, acceptable identification.

The ID must be:

• Physical (no photos or digital copies)

• Government-issued

• Current or expired within the last 5 years

• Contain a photo, signature, physical description and identifying information

Common acceptable forms of identification

• California driver’s license or ID card

• Driver’s license or ID card from another U.S. state

• U.S. passport or passport card

• U.S. military ID

• Valid foreign passport

• ID card issued by a federally recognized tribal government

• Certain employee IDs issued by a California state, county, or city agency

• Valid consular identification card that meets California requirements

What information must the ID include?

The ID must clearly show:

• A photograph

• A signature

• A physical description

• An identifying number

What if I don’t have acceptable ID?

If acceptable ID is not available, identity may be established using two credible witnesses.

Both witnesses must:

• Personally know the signer

• Present their own valid ID

• Be impartial and not named in the document

• Take an oath or affirmation confirming the signer’s identity

What do credible witnesses have to swear (or affirm) to?

Each witness must swear or affirm that:

1. The signer is the person named in the document

2. They personally know the signer

3. It would be difficult or impossible for the signer to obtain ID

4. The signer does not possess valid ID

5. They are not named in the document and have no financial interest

Can I use expired identification?

In California, identification may be accepted if it is current or expired no more than 5 years, depending on the type of ID.

Can I use a photo or digital copy of my ID?

No. Identification must be a physical document presented at the time of notarization. Photos, scans, or digital IDs cannot be accepted.

Can the notary make exceptions if I don’t have ID?

No, there are no exceptions. Notaries must follow California law when verifying identity and cannot proceed without proper identification or credible witnesses.

Ready to get started?

Appointments are completed at your location and can be scheduled in about a minute.

🫆 Live Scan Frequently Asked Questions

What is Live Scan fingerprinting?

Live Scan fingerprinting is an electronic method of capturing fingerprints and securely submitting them to government agencies for a background check.

In California, fingerprints are transmitted directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

It is commonly required for employment, licensing, certification, and volunteer work.

How does mobile Live Scan fingerprinting work?

Mobile Live Scan allows fingerprinting to be completed at your location, without needing to visit a walk-in site.

During the appointment, fingerprints are captured electronically using professional Live Scan equipment and securely transmitted to the appropriate government agencies based on the ORI number listed on your form.

Everything is handled in one visit, allowing the process to be completed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

What’s the difference between mobile Live Scan and a walk-in location?

Mobile Live Scan allows everything to be completed at your location on your schedule, without needing to drive, wait in line, or complete fingerprinting in a public setting.

Appointments are completed privately in a clean, organized setup, with the ability to print forms if needed so everything can be handled in one place.

What do I need for Live Scan fingerprinting?

A completed Request for Live Scan Service form from the requesting agency and a valid, unexpired, physical government-issued photo ID are required.

If needed, the form can often be printed during the appointment so everything can be completed in one visit without added steps.

What forms of identification are accepted for Live Scan?

Live Scan requires a valid, unexpired, physical government-issued photo ID to verify identity.

Primary forms of ID include:

• California driver’s license or ID card

• Driver’s license or ID card from another U.S. state

👉 For full identification requirements, see our Live Scan ID Guide.

How long does Live Scan fingerprinting take?

Fingerprinting typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes per person, depending on the number of applicants and how prepared the forms are.

Additional time may be needed for larger group appointments.

When will I receive my Live Scan results?

Most Live Scan results are processed within 24 to 72 hours after submission.

Typical turnaround times:

• DOJ only: usually within about 48 hours

• DOJ + FBI: typically 3 to 7 business days

More complex background checks may take longer.

What shows up on a Live Scan background check?

A Live Scan is a fingerprint-based background check that searches state and federal databases for criminal history.

The information reported depends on the type of background check requested by the agency.

Most Live Scan results may include:

• Criminal convictions (misdemeanors and felonies)

• Certain arrest records, depending on the request

• Outstanding warrants

• Sex offender registry status

• Additional checks such as Child Abuse Central Index (CACI), depending on the application

Live Scan uses fingerprints instead of names, which helps ensure accurate results and avoids mix-ups with similar names.

What does not typically show up on a Live Scan?

In most standard background checks:

• Arrests without a conviction are usually not reported

• Civil matters such as credit history or restraining orders are typically not included

Some exceptions may apply depending on the type of job or license being requested.

Who receives the Live Scan results?

Results are sent directly to the requesting agency, such as an employer or licensing board.

They are not provided to the applicant or the Live Scan provider.

If needed, a personal copy of your record can be requested separately through the California Department of Justice.

How do I check the status of my Live Scan?

You can check your status through the California Department of Justice Applicant Background Check Status portal.

You will need your ATI number (located at the bottom of your form) and your date of birth.

Once processing is complete, results are sent directly to the requesting agency.

How much does Live Scan fingerprinting cost?

Mobile Live Scan service starts at $99 per person plus government fees.

This includes travel to your location, mobile setup, fingerprint capture, and electronic submission, so everything can be completed in one visit without added steps.

Government fees vary depending on the type of background check required.

Why do government fees vary for Live Scan?

Government background check fees are set by the requesting agency and are based on the ORI number listed on your Request for Live Scan Service form.

The ORI determines what type of background check is required, such as a California Department of Justice (DOJ) check or a combined DOJ and FBI check.

Because each request is different, the total government processing cost can vary. In most common cases, government fees are typically around $32 (DOJ only) or $49 (DOJ + FBI).

Some applications may include additional database checks or application fees depending on the request listed on your Live Scan form.

What is an ORI number?

The ORI number is listed on your Live Scan form and identifies the agency requesting your background check. It determines where your fingerprints are submitted and what type of background check is performed.

Can I reuse a previous Live Scan for a new job or license?

No. A new Live Scan submission is required for each agency or employer. Background check results are specific to the requesting agency and cannot be shared between organizations.

What if I don’t have my Live Scan form?

A Live Scan form is required to complete fingerprinting. If you’re not sure what’s needed, feel free to reach out so we can understand what you’re trying to accomplish and help guide you in the right direction.

Can multiple people be fingerprinted during the same appointment?

Yes. Group appointments can be scheduled for businesses, organizations, or multiple individuals during the same visit.

What should I expect during the appointment?

Fingerprinting is completed using professional Live Scan equipment in a clean and organized setup designed for a smooth and efficient experience.

The process includes identity verification, fingerprint capture, and secure electronic submission to the appropriate agencies during the appointment.

Everything is completed at your location, without the need to wait in line or visit a public office.

Ready to get started?

Appointments are completed at your location and can be scheduled in about a minute.

👥 Group Live Scan Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a group Live Scan appointment cost?

Group pricing is based on group size, location, and how the appointment is organized on-site.

The total cost per person includes both the mobile service and the required government processing fee. Most organizations fall within a predictable overall range, and an exact estimate is provided after reviewing your request.

Why is mobile Live Scan priced differently than retail locations?

Retail locations process individuals one at a time in a public setting.

This service is designed to handle your entire group on-site in one coordinated visit, which includes travel, setup, equipment, and managing the process from start to finish.

Most organizations choose this option to avoid scheduling conflicts, travel time, and delays from sending individuals to multiple locations.

Is the government fee included in the price?

Each Live Scan includes a government processing fee per person, which is required for submission and is the same regardless of live scan provider.

Your total cost includes both the on-site mobile service and the government fee, combined into one overall per-person amount.

Do you offer volume rates for larger groups?

Larger groups are typically completed more efficiently, which is reflected in the overall cost.

Because everything is handled in one visit, the process becomes more streamlined as group size increases.

Can we send employees or applicants individually instead?

Since we are strictly a mobile live scan provider, we do not have location to visit for individuals to visit. Most organizations find that coordinating individual appointments leads to delays, missed appointments, and inconsistent results.

Handling everything on-site in one session keeps the process organized, faster, and easier to manage.

How long does a group appointment take?

Each person typically takes 10–30 minutes. Total appointment time depends on group size and how prepared the group is. When forms are completed and IDs are ready, groups can be processed faster.

What do our applicants need to be prepared?

Each person should have:

• A completed Live Scan request form
• A valid unexpired government-issued photo ID

Being prepared helps keep the appointment moving efficiently for everyone.

What forms of identification are accepted for Live Scan?

Live Scan requires a valid, unexpired, physical government-issued photo ID to verify identity.

Primary forms of ID include:

• California driver’s license or ID card

• Driver’s license or ID card from another U.S. state

👉 For full identification requirements, see our Live Scan ID Guide.

Do you offer ongoing or recurring service rates?

Yes, for organizations that require Live Scan services regularly, appointments can be coordinated to maintain consistent scheduling and pricing across multiple sessions.

Ready to get started?

Just provide a few details like a preferred date and time, group size and needs, and we’ll review everything to confirm availability and provide an estimate.

Most requests take about one minute to complete.

🪪 Live Scan Identification Guide

What Identification Is Required for Live Scan Fingerprinting?

✅ Plain-English Live Scan ID Summary

Best option: valid, unexpired driver’s license or state ID

If not available: bring one secondary ID + two supporting documents

Without proper ID, the live scan cannot be completed

✅ Best and Easiest ID Option for Live Scan (Recommended)

Bring one valid, unexpired photo ID that reasonably resembles the applicant.

Accepted primary photo ID:

California Driver’s License

California DMV Identification Card

Out-of-state Driver’s License

If one of these is provided, no additional documents are needed.

⚠️ If a Driver’s License or State ID Is Not Available

Live Scan may still be completed, but additional documents are required.

In this case, both of the following must be brought:

1. At least one secondary form of identification

2. At least two supporting documents

This is a strict DOJ requirement.

🪪 Acceptable Secondary Identification

One or more of the following may be used as secondary ID:

• State-issued Certificate of Birth

• U.S. Passport

• U.S. Military ID card (Active Duty, Retiree, or Reservist) (000 10-2)

• Federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Card

• Department of Defense Common Access Card (CAC)

• U.S. Tribal or Bureau of Indian Affairs ID

• Social Security Card

• Court Order (Name Change, Gender Change, Adoption, or Divorce)

• Government-issued Marriage Certificate

• U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad

• Foreign Passport with appropriate immigration documents

• Certificate of Citizenship (N-560)

• Certificate of Naturalization (N-550)

• INS I-551 Permanent Resident Card (issued since 1997)

• INS I-688 Temporary Resident ID

• INS I-688B / I-766 Employment Authorization Card

📄 Required Supporting Documents (2 Required)

When using secondary ID, two of the following must also be provided:

• Utility bill showing current address

• Jurisdictional voter registration card

• Vehicle registration card or title

• Paycheck stub showing name and address

• Spouse or parent affidavit

• Cancelled check or bank statement

• Mortgage documents

The information on these documents must support the identity being verified.

Ready to get started?

Appointments are completed at your location and can be scheduled in about a minute.

🌍 Apostille Frequently Asked Questions

What is an apostille?

An apostille is an international certification that verifies the authenticity of a signature or seal on a document so it can be used in another country.

It confirms that the official who signed or notarized the document is recognized, but it does not verify the content of the document itself.

What is an apostille used for?

Apostilles are commonly required when documents are being used internationally for legal, personal, or business purposes.

This may include working abroad, getting married in another country, studying overseas, or handling international legal matters.

What types of documents can be apostilled?

Common documents include:

• Birth, marriage, and death certificates (certified copies)

• Powers of attorney

• Affidavits and sworn statements

• Diplomas and transcripts

• Business and legal documents

Documents must typically be original or certified copies to be accepted.

How do I get a certified copy for an apostille?

Certified copies of birth, marriage, or death certificates must be requested from the government agency that originally issued the record.

This is typically the county clerk or recorder where the event occurred, or the state vital records office.

Most agencies allow you to order records online, by mail, or in person, with online ordering usually being the fastest option.

Many government agencies use an official third-party service like VitalChek for online orders.

Some requests may require identity verification or a notarized sworn statement depending on the request.

How does the apostille process work?

The process involves reviewing your document and submitting it to the California Secretary of State for certification.

This service includes document review, notarization if required, submission for apostille processing, and secure return of your completed documents.

Everything is handled from start to finish to help ensure the process is completed correctly.

Do my documents need to be notarized before getting an apostille?

Most documents require notarization before they can be apostilled, while vital records do not require notarization.

Vital records such as birth or marriage certificates must be certified copies issued by the appropriate government agency and are not notarized.

If notarization is required, it can be completed as part of the appointment.

Do my documents need to be translated for an apostille?

Some documents may need to be translated depending on the requirements of the country where they will be used.

Translation is not part of the apostille itself, but many countries require a certified translation for use in legal or administrative processes.

If a certified translation is required it can be handled along with the apostille so everything is completely and ready for international use.

How long does the apostille process take?

Processing typically takes about 3 to 5 business days for standard service, depending on the Secretary of State.

Expedited options may be available depending on your timeline.

Do I need to go to the Secretary of State office?

No. The entire process can be handled for you.

Documents are reviewed, picked up, notarized, submitted in person for processing, and returned once completed.

Can you pick up and return my documents?

Yes. Documents can be picked up from your home or office and returned once the apostille process is complete.

This allows everything to be handled without needing to coordinate multiple steps.

Do I need to provide original documents?

In most cases, yes. Original documents or certified copies are typically required for apostille processing. Photocopies are generally not accepted.

Can I apostille documents issued in another state or country?

Documents must be apostilled by the state or country where they were issued.

For example, a California apostille can only be issued for documents that were issued or notarized in California.

What if the country is not part of the Hague Convention?

If the destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, the document must go through a more complex legalization process.

This includes state authentication, federal authentication, and certification by the destination country’s embassy or consulate.

Can federal documents be apostilled in California?

No. Federal documents, such as FBI background checks, must be processed through the U.S. Department of State, not the California Secretary of State.

What can cause an apostille to be rejected?

Common reasons include:

• Incorrect or incomplete notarization

• Documents issued in the wrong state

• Photocopies instead of certified originals

• Laminated documents

Preparing documents correctly helps avoid delays or rejection.

Can I remove the staples from an apostilled document?

No. The apostille must remain attached to the original document exactly as issued.

Removing or altering the staples can invalidate the apostille, and many foreign authorities will consider the document tampered with or no longer valid.

Why are apostilles stapled to documents?

The apostille is securely bound to the original document to confirm that the certification applies specifically to that document.

This prevents misuse and ensures the document cannot be separated or altered without detection.

What happens if an apostille is accidentally unstapled?

If the apostille has been removed or the staples have been altered, the document may no longer be accepted.

In most cases, the only reliable solution is to restart the process by obtaining a new certified copy and a new apostille.

Do apostilles expire?

Apostilles do not expire. However, some receiving countries may require documents to be issued within 5 years depending on their specific requirements.

What if I’m not sure what I need?

If you’re not sure what’s required, feel free to reach out so we can understand what you’re trying to accomplish and help guide you in the right direction.

Ready to start your apostille process?

Documents can be picked up, processed, and returned with everything handled for you.

📘 Apostille Guide

How do I get a certified copy for an apostille?

Certified copies of birth, marriage, or death certificates must be requested from the government agency that originally issued the record.

This is typically the county clerk or recorder where the event occurred (often the fastest option) or the state vital records office

Most agencies allow you to order records online (usually the fastest), by mail, or in person.

Many government agencies use an official third-party service like VitalChek for online orders.

Some requests may require identity verification or a notarized sworn statement depending on the request.

What’s the difference between an apostille and legalization?

The process depends on whether the destination country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Apostille: Used for countries that are members of the Hague Convention. A single apostille certificate is issued.

Legalization: Required for countries that are not members. This is a multi-step process that may include state, federal, and embassy authentication.

What countries accept an apostille?

As of 2026, 129 countries are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

This international agreement allows documents issued in one member country to be certified with a single apostille for use in other member countries, without requiring full legalization.

Examples of member countries by region include:

• Americas: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru

• Europe: All EU countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain), United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Ukraine, Turkey

• Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore

• Africa: South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius

• Middle East: Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman

If the destination country is not a member, the document must go through the full legalization process instead.

Important note about certain countries

Some countries may have changing requirements or be in the process of joining the Hague Convention.

For example, Vietnam is currently transitioning but still requires the full legalization process until they officially enter the apostille convention.

Gabriel Mobile Notary

📞 Phone: 657-217-3573

📧 Email: gabriel@gabrielmobilenotary.com

🌐 Website: https://gabrielmobilenotary.com/