You must request authentication services by mail. We will process your request in 4 weeks from the date we receive it. 

Reminders:

• Check if you need an authentication certificate or an apostille.
• Review the certification requirements for your document(s) and get it notarized.

What to include when you request authentications by mail:

1. Complete Form DS-4194. Be sure to list the country in which you will use the document.
2. The document(s) requiring authentication services
3. Fees. Authentications fees are $20 per document for all services.
4. One self-addressed, prepaid envelope for return of your document. Use USPS or UPS. Please do not use FedEx. 

Pay your fees to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order. We cannot accept temporary, starter, or bank fill-in checks. All check numbers must be over 100, and dated within the last six months.   

Mail your packet to the following address:

Office of Authentications
U.S. Department of State
44132 Mercure Circle
P.O. Box 1206
Sterling, VA  20166-1206

Use trackable mail from USPS.

You will receive an update when your package arrives in the Sterling, VA postal facility. You will not receive an update when the package arrives at our office in Washington, DC.