Office of Authentications
ATTENTION
New Office Acronym: CA/PPT/S/TO/AUT
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As of November 1, 2012, we will no longer process your request without payment.”
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We will no longer accept fax inquires.*
Appointments
Telephone Number: 202-261-8081
Appointment Line Available: 10:00AM to 2:30PM, Monday- Friday (Except Federal Holidays).
Emergency requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please plan accordingly.
On Monday, September 17, the Office of Authentications implemented a new schedule for document review, drop-offs, pick-ups, and appointments. This schedule will better serve the public by allowing the office to prioritize requests. .
In accordance with 22 CFR, Part 131, the Office of Authentications provides signed certificates of authenticity for a variety of documents to individuals, institutions, and government agencies. Examples of documents that might require authentication for use abroad include company bylaws, powers of attorney, trademark, diplomas, treaties, warrants, extraditions, agreements, certificates of good standing, and courier letters. Learn more about requirements for Authentication Certificates and Apostilles from the State Department.
Requesting Authentication Services
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Make sure you really need a State Department authentication certificate or apostille.
Learn more about requirements for Authentication Certificates and Apostilles from the State Department. Same-day service is available for walk-ins. You can have a friend or professional courier bring in your package for you. New policies and procedures went into effect September 17, 2012. Learn more.
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Plan ahead. The average processing time for mail-in requests is 10 business days from the date of receipt from the Department mailroom (different from the date of delivery for most tracked packages) to the date of return to the Department mailroom. Use of tracked mail delivery will expedite handling of your request by mailroom and may prevent damage to documents caused by irradiation of USPS regular mail. Ensure that you have all the required certifications for your document(s). Review certification requirements.
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Complete form DS-4194 , “Request for Authentications Service.” Please generate an original form for each document request. Your input to the form creates a unique bar code containing the information needed to prepare individual certificates and mailing labels.
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Submit payment and request package to the Office of Authentications at the U.S. Department of State. Requests are accepted by mail, courier, or in person. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express are accepted for counter service only.
