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 (P&S license — wall certificate mailed, wallet license self-printed); the specialty board (certification certificate). 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 document to apostille — the P&S license (wall certificate / wallet license / board verification) and/or the specialty-board certificate. The holder 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/holder (document custodian). Required forms: None statewide; California jurat / Copy Certification by.
Frequently asked questions
Does California issue a separate surgeon license?
No — surgeons hold the Medical Board’s Physician’s and Surgeon’s (P&S) license. Surgical specialty is shown by private board certification, not a state license.
What should I apostille to prove I’m a surgeon abroad?
Typically the P&S license (#159) and, if needed, your specialty board-certification certificate — each via a custodian affidavit.
Is the specialty board a government agency?
No — it’s a private certifying body; its certificate is apostilled the same notarized way.
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).