What is a 'certified copy' notarial act?

Certified copies are a specific notarial act where the notary attests that a photocopy is a true and complete reproduction of an original document. Restrictions vary significantly by state: (1) Many states prohibit certified copies of public records — birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, court records, deeds — which must be obtained from the issuing agency; (2) Some states only allow certified copies of powers of attorney; (3) Some states do not allow notaries to make certified copies at all (only the document's custodian can do so). Procedure where allowed: the notary inspects the original; makes a copy themselves (not relying on a copy provided by the signer); compares the copy to the original; certifies in a notarial certificate that the copy is true and exact. The notary must have the original to certify a copy — they cannot certify a copy of a copy. Check state-specific rules carefully before attempting this act, as the limitations are extensive in many jurisdictions.