Certified vs. Notarized Translation: What's the Difference?

What is the difference between a certified translation and a notarized translation?

A certified translation includes a signed certification from the translator or translation company stating that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of the translator’s knowledge and ability.

A notarized translation generally refers to a translation accompanied by a translator’s certification that has been notarized. The Notary Public performs the appropriate notarial act for the person signing the certification.

Important: The notarization does not certify the accuracy or quality of the translation itself. The translator is responsible for certifying the translation. The Notary Public performs a notarial act related to the signer and the translator’s certification.

Some receiving agencies require only a certified translation, while others may request a notarized certification. Always confirm the requirements with the agency or organization receiving your documents.

B. Elise Notary Services facilitates professional translations through an ATA-certified translation partner and can coordinate related notarization when applicable.