The procedure for authenticating documents executed before a notary public such as affidavits or acknowledgments varies from state to state. In some states, this requires contacting the clerk of the court of the county where the notary is licensed, and obtaining an authentication of the notary’s seal. The state Secretary of State’s office can then authenticate the seal of the clerk of the county court (Foreign Certification). After the seal of the state Secretary of State is on the document, it may be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State Authentications Office. The final step is to obtain the seal of the foreign embassy or consulate in the United States. Usually, foreign embassies or consulates in the U.S. can only authenticate the seal of the U.S. Department of State. Some foreign embassies and consulates maintain sample seals of state authorities