A colleague is applying for Irish citizenship. The application requires that a Notary certifies that "a copy" of his driver's license is a true copy. He has to mail a copy of his license, but a Notary would need to certify that it is a true copy. The application is only asking for my signature. Is this allowed in Illinois to certify a document from another country? — L.H., Illinois
In Illinois, a Notary is authorized to certify copies of a driver’s license. But to certify the copy, you must see the original ID to compare it against the copy before you certify the copy. And you cannot just sign the application to certify the copy. You must complete a notarial certificate containing your signature and official seal certifying the copy, and staple it to the driver’s license copy.
Notaries in other states should always check their state laws first before certifying a copy. Some states do not authorize Notaries to certify copies, some limit what documents may be copy certified, and others may have specific requirements for the certification process. For more information, see the guide to state copy certification rules in our article on how to certify a copy of a document.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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