Quick facts
- Category: Professional License
- Apostilled by the California Secretary of State (Sacramento or Los Angeles)
- Fee: $20 per document (mail) or $26 (walk-in) at the California Secretary of State
- Free document review before you pay any government fee
- Tracked outbound and return shipping included
What to know
Issuing office: The MBC issues the license (wall certificate mailed; wallet license self-printed). A duplicate wall certificate or a written license verification can be requested from the Board. A California notary public notarizes the custodian affidavit; use a mobile notary if needed. CA SOS Notary Public Section: (916) 653-3595. Notarized route (steps): Obtain the license document (wall certificate, self-printed wallet license, or a board verification letter). The licensee signs a Copy Certification by Document Custodian affidavit attesting it is a true copy — in front of a California notary, with acceptable ID. The notary completes a current California jurat, attaches it, and affixes the seal. Confirm legibility and that the commission number/expiration appear. Who can sign it: The licensee (document custodian). Required forms: None statewide; California jurat / Copy Certification.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as my medical diploma?
No — the diploma is the academic credential (#147) on the registrar/custodian route. This is the state license from the Medical Board.
I’m a D.O. — same board?
No — osteopathic physicians are licensed by the separate Osteopathic Medical Board of California; the apostille route is the same notarized custodian path.
What do I actually apostille — the wall certificate or a verification?
Either a notarized copy of the wall certificate/wallet license, or a board verification letter — both go through a custodian affidavit.
Can a CA notary certify the copy directly?
No — use a Copy Certification by Document Custodian affidavit (POA is the only copy a CA notary certifies directly).
Common destinations
Countries this document is most often sent to (pulled from this page's own guidance). Every destination has its own rulebook — apostille (Hague) or full legalization (non-Hague).