Apostille
An Apostille is a type of certification that is required when submitting vital records to a foreign government. The vital records must be filed initially with the DCVRD Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications to obtain an Apostille. The following types of records can be requested for an Apostille: birth, death, and marriage certificates.
How can I get an apostille for a vital record?
Apostilles for vital records in the District of Columbia can be conveniently obtained entirely online via Vital Records Online. Alternatively, they can be acquired through the Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications in the District of Columbia.
Vital Records Online offers comprehensive apostille services across all 50 US states, recognized by governments and organizations worldwide. The online service includes apostilles for Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates and includes professional support. Vital Records Online’s apostille service starts at a competitive price of $149, (plus government fees), and is legally valid in over 100 countries. The entire process can be conveniently completed online in just three simple steps.
- Complete the Apostille Express online application.
- Submit the required documents for approval.
- Receive your apostille document.
Vital Records Online’s apostille service allows you to complete it entirely online in most instances, eliminating the need for physical document submission. Whether you are located in the US or overseas, your documents are shipped via global couriers like FedEx or DHL. Once your apostille document is prepared, it will be shipped directly to your doorstep.
If you are manually sending your certificates, you will need to provide the following information:
- Most documents must be either notarized by a DC notary public or signed by an authorized head of a DC government agency.
- Birth and death certificates must be original from the District of Columbia. They must be on letter size (8.5″ X11″) paper.
- For authentication, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees must be certified copies issued by the US Superior Court for the District of Columbia and have the triple seal. They may not be notarized.
You can submit requests for vital record apostilles to the DCVRD Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications at the following addresses:
For express shipping (UPS, DHL, or Federal Express), submit the request to the physical address:
Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications
441 4th Street, NW,
Suite 810 South,
Washington, DC 20001
For standard mail, use the following address:
441 4th Street, NW
Suite 810 South,
Washington, DC 20001
You can reach the office at (202) 727-3117 or online at https://os.dc.gov/service/authentications