VitalChek and Mail-Order Sworn Statements for Certified Copies
Ordering a birth, death or marriage certificate through VitalChek or by mail? For an authorized copy, the sworn statement has to be notarized. Here’s how.
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Quick answer
When you order an authorized certified copy of a California birth, death or marriage record online (through VitalChek) or by mail, you must prove you’re entitled to it with a sworn statement signed under penalty of perjury and notarized. You sign the statement in front of a notary, who completes the attached acknowledgment, and you upload, fax or mail it as the instructions say. Without it, you’ll only receive an informational copy, which can’t be used for ID, passports or apostilles.
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Authorized vs. informational copies
| Authorized certified copy | Informational certified copy | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can get it | The person on the record and certain relatives and representatives listed in the law | Anyone |
| Use for ID, passport, DMV, apostille | Yes | No (marked “Informational, not a valid document to establish identity”) |
| Notarized sworn statement needed by mail or online | Yes | No |
Who qualifies for an authorized copy is set by Health and Safety Code § 103526: the registrant, parents and legal guardians, children, grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, spouses and domestic partners, attorneys and certain others. You swear to your relationship in the statement.
How to get the sworn statement notarized
- Place your order with VitalChek (or prepare the mail application for the county or state) and print the sworn statement it gives you.
- Fill it in, including your relationship to the person on the record. Wait to sign until you’re with the notary.
- Sign in front of the notary with acceptable ID. The notary completes the certificate of acknowledgment.
- Send it exactly as instructed (upload, fax or mail), within any deadline the order gives you.
The notarized statement must be the original form tied to your order, with the notary’s certificate attached or on the same page. A sworn statement without a complete notarial certificate is the most common reason these orders stall.
If the certificate is going abroad
Order the authorized copy, then have it apostilled. Many countries want a recently issued copy, so order a fresh one. We can notarize the sworn statement and then handle the apostille when the copy arrives.
Common questions
Does the VitalChek sworn statement need to be notarized?
Yes, for an authorized certified copy of a California vital record ordered online or by mail.
Can you notarize the sworn statement today?
Usually, yes. We offer same-day mobile appointments. Call (424) 484-9268.
Can a notary give me a copy of my birth certificate?
No. Only the county or state can issue certified copies. The notary only notarizes your sworn statement. See birth, death and marriage certificates.
What clients say
★★★★★ 4.9 on Google · 115 reviews
★★★★★
“Had a great experience working with Josh, he was able to come over same day and made the process easy and seamless to get documents notarized and apostilled.”
Robbie Page · Google review · Aug 2026
★★★★★
“Josh was amazing and such a blessing. He came to the hospital, into the ICU and got what we needed done. On a Sunday…..within an hour. He was professional and kind. I can’t say enough, he was amazing.”
Courtney Johnston · Google review · Jan 2022
★★★★★
“He went above and beyond for me. I had a tight deadline, and he stayed late to make sure everything got done. That extra effort meant so much truly special service you don’t find every day”
mopt · Google review · Aug 2025
Related guides
- Birth, Death & Marriage CertificatesWhy notaries can’t certify them, where to order copies, and apostilles.
- Vital Record ApostillesFor dual citizenship, residency and marriage abroad.
- Amending Vital RecordsThe affidavit to correct a birth or death record, and when you need a court.
- Certified CopiesOnly powers of attorney, plus the alternatives that work for everything else.
Need a notary? We come to you.
Mobile notary across Los Angeles County, open 24/7 by appointment. Book online or call (424) 484-9268.