New York Apostille & Document Authentication

Identify the certification chain

Local vital records need certification by the clerk of the issuing county. Eligible New York State Department of Health records bearing the appropriate state signature do not need that county step. Notarized documents need certification by the clerk where the notary is qualified.

Education and New York City records

For education records, a school official certifies the record or true copy; that signature is notarized, then certified by the appropriate county clerk. New York City birth and death records also need a Letter of Exemplification before New York County Clerk certification.

Submit a complete package

Send the completed destination-country request form, correctly certified documents, payment and prepaid return mailer. Use the published physical address for courier delivery. New York cannot apostille federal documents; the destination determines whether an apostille or authentication certificate applies.

Service estimate

Premier’s typical other-state service estimate is 5–7 business days, subject to document review and authority availability. Shipping is additional. This is not the state’s published mail-processing time.

Frequently asked questions