Can a new york state notary notarize copy of birth certificate?

In the state of New York, notaries public are not authorized to notarize copies of birth certificates. Only certain categories of individuals are permitted to provide certified copies of birth certificates, including:

- The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)

- The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) for birth records that occurred in New York City

- The county clerk's office in the county where the birth occurred

These entities can provide both original birth certificates and certified copies, which have the same legal effect as originals. Notarized copies of birth certificates are generally not recognized as valid and may not be accepted for legal or official purposes.