Quick facts
- Category: Academic
- 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 registrar issues the letter on letterhead. A California notary public notarizes the official’s signature; use a mobile notary if needed. CA SOS Notary Public Section: (916) 653-3595. Notarized route (steps): Request the registrar letter (stating the facts/records to be attested). The school official signs in the physical presence of a California notary, with acceptable ID. The notary completes a current California acknowledgment, attaches it, and affixes the seal. Confirm legibility and that the commission number/expiration appear. Who can sign it: The registrar / authorized school official. Required forms: None statewide; California acknowledgment wording. Cost + timeline for THIS step (verified June 2026): Up to $15 per notarized signature (Gov. Code §8211). Mobile/travel fees unregulated. Usually same-day once issued. What the SOS needs to see: The California.
Frequently asked questions
What’s this letter for?
A general official statement from the registrar — confirming facts or vouching for attached records — when the destination wants a signed, notarized school letter.
Who signs it?
The registrar / authorized school official, before a California notary.
Can it vouch for my transcript/diploma?
Yes — the registrar can attest to attached records; keep them stapled to the notarized letter.
Is there a government fee?
No SOS fee beyond the apostille.
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).