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Contact Authentications
Contact the Office of Authentications if you need information or a status check on a document that is being authenticated.
We issue both apostilles and authentication certificates. We authenticate a variety of documents forpeople, institutions, and government agencies for use abroad.
Complete this form
Before using this form, we recommend checking our site. Use this form to request information or a status check about a document if you cannot find an answer on our site. We will respond to you within 7 days. Please do not submit another request while you are waiting for a response.
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Hours and addresses
Keep in mind that authentication services are by appointment only, have specific document requirements, and are offered during set hours.
Hours
Our office is open 7:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except for federal holidays.
- Walk-ins for drop off and pick up: 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. ET, Monday through Thursday
- Appointments for life-or-death emergencies only: 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Thursday
While we process requests on Fridays, we are not open to the public and do not take walk-ins or appointments on this day.
Addresses
For walk-ins and appointments, visit us at our office.
Physical address
Office of Authentications
600 19th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Mailing address
U.S. Department of State
Office of Authentications
44132 Mercure Circle
PO Box 1206
Sterling, VA 20166-1206