In plain English
A notary may notarize the translator's signature on the statement but does not verify the translation.
Agencies set their own requirements.
Why it matters
Immigration, court and school offices often require translations with a certification statement. If the statement is missing or the translator did not sign, the office may reject the filing.
A notary can notarize the translator's signature, but the notary does not check the translation. That means the translator, not the notary, is the one vouching for accuracy, and the signer should choose a translator the receiving office will accept before booking the notary.
Worked example
A translator signs a certification statement before a notary for an immigration filing.
What to do
- Ask the requesting office what certification wording it accepts.
- Hire a translator who will sign a certification statement.
- Have the translator sign before a notary if the office requires notarization.
- Attach the translation to a copy of the original.
- Keep copies of everything.
Common mistakes
- Translating your own document can be rejected by agencies that require an independent translator.
- Expecting the notary to confirm the translation is accurate misunderstands the notary's role.
- Leaving out a page of the original can cause the filing to be returned.
Not the same as: Certified copy
A certified translation includes a translator's accuracy statement, while a certified copy is a copy confirmed to match an original record. See Certified copy.
Go deeper
- What Is a Certified Translation and When Is It Required?: Learn what makes a translation certified, who can certify it, how it differs from notarized or sworn translation, and which agencies commonly require it.
- Translator Statements and Notarization: Getting the Order Right: How to sequence a translation, the translator's signed statement, notarization and apostille so a foreign or U.S. agency will accept the whole package.
Related terms
- Closing Disclosure: A document that lists final loan terms and closing costs for a mortgage.
- Commission: The official authority a state gives a person to act as a notary for a set term.
- Certified copy: A copy that an official custodian certifies as true to the original.
Common questions
What is a certified translation?
A translation with a signed statement from the translator that it is complete and accurate.
Can you give an example of certified translation?
A translator signs a certification statement before a notary for an immigration filing.
Does a certified translation have to be notarized?
Some offices require it; others do not. Check with the office.
Can a notary translate my document?
A notary acting as a notary does not translate. Translation is a separate service.
General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office.