Which State Should Issue My Apostille?
By John F. Heinz, Managing Director, Prismark Signature Services
Published: August 5, 2026
Quick Answer
In most cases, the state that issued or notarized your document is the state that should issue the apostille. For example, a California birth certificate generally receives a California apostille, while a Texas notarized document generally receives a Texas apostille.
If your document was issued by the U.S. federal government, a different federal authentication process may apply.
Key Takeaways
- The document’s state of origin usually determines which state issues the apostille.
- A California apostille is generally issued for California documents.
- Documents issued by another state usually require an apostille from that state.
- Federal documents often follow a different authentication process.
Call or Text Prismark Signatures to schedule an appointment: (213) 563-0758
How Do I Know Which State to Use?
The answer usually depends on where the document was issued or notarized.
For example, certified California vital records and documents notarized by a California notary public are generally submitted to the California Secretary of State. Documents originating from another state are generally submitted to that state’s designated apostille authority.
What If I Live in a Different State?
Where you live usually does not determine which state issues the apostille. Instead, the determining factor is typically where the document was issued or notarized.
Every apostille request is different. The type of document, where it was issued, and the country where it will be used all affect the process.
How Prismark Can Help
Prismark Signature Services reviews your documents before the apostille process begins to help identify which state or government authority should handle the authentication.
Where you currently live does not usually determine where the apostille is issued. We’ll review where your document was issued, certified, or notarized and help identify the appropriate processing authority. If you’re in California but have documents originating in another state, you don’t have to manage multiple apostille offices on your own.
Through our trusted nationwide network of professional apostille affiliates, Prismark can coordinate apostille processing for documents originating throughout the United States. Federal documents that follow a different authentication process can also be coordinated when applicable.
If your documents will be presented in a country where another language is required, Prismark can coordinate certified and sworn translations in more than 150 languages through our trusted translation partners.
For your peace of mind, Prismark is a bonded California Notary Public, background screened, and carries $1 million in Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. Your important documents are handled with professionalism, confidentiality, and care throughout the authentication process.
Located just minutes from the California Secretary of State’s Los Angeles Apostille Office, Prismark offers expedited same-day California apostille service. In qualifying cases, properly prepared California documents can often be processed in as little as four hours.
Call or Text Prismark Signatures to schedule an appointment: (213) 563-0758
Related Guides
- Who Issues an Apostille?
- Which Documents Can Be Apostilled?
- What If My Document Is a Federal Document?
- Does My Country Accept Apostilles?
- California Apostille
Professional Notice
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Prismark Signature Services is not a law firm. If you have questions about your legal rights or which documents are appropriate for your situation, please contact the requesting organization or a qualified attorney.
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