Key Takeaways
- Notary certifies that a copy is a true reproduction of the original
- Personal appearance is NOT required for copy certification
- Cannot certify copies of documents issued by public entities
- Original document must be presented to the notary
- Notary compares copy to original for accuracy
Last updated: January 2026
Copy Certifications
A certified copy is a notarial act where the notary certifies that a photocopy or reproduction is a true and accurate copy of the original document.
What is Copy Certification?
The notary:
- Reviews the original document
- Compares it to the copy
- Certifies that the copy is a full, true, and accurate reproduction
Personal Appearance NOT Required
Unlike acknowledgments and jurats, copy certification does not require personal appearance of any individual. The notary is certifying the document, not a person's identity or statement.
Restriction: Public Records
Important: A Montana notary MAY NOT certify a copy of a document issued by a public entity unless the notary is employed by that entity.
| Cannot Certify (Unless Employed by Issuer) | Can Certify |
|---|---|
| Birth certificates | Personal documents |
| Death certificates | Letters |
| Marriage certificates | Contracts |
| Court records | Business records |
| School transcripts | Photographs |
| Government-issued documents | Private correspondence |
Copy Certification Process
- Receive the original document
- Make or receive a copy
- Compare copy to original for completeness and accuracy
- Complete the notarial certificate
- Affix official seal/stamp
Montana Copy Certification Certificate
State of Montana
County of ______________
I certify that this is a true and accurate copy of a record
in the possession of _________________________________ [name].
Date: _____________
[Signature of notarial officer]
[Stamp/Seal]
Common Uses
- Copying diplomas or degrees
- Copying personal letters
- Copying private contracts
- Copying photographs
- Copying business documents
On the Exam
- No personal appearance: Copy certification is about the document, not a person
- Public records restriction: Cannot certify unless employed by issuing entity
- Compare originals: Must compare copy to original
- Accurate reproduction: Certifying copy is true and complete
Test Your Knowledge
Which document can a Montana notary certify as a true copy?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Does copy certification require personal appearance of the document owner?
A
B
C
D