Certificate authentication for documents originating in the USA and intended for use in Canada is a multi-step process aimed at ensuring the credibility and legitimacy of these documents across international borders. First, the document undergoes notarization by a licensed notary public in the USA, certifying its authenticity. Depending on the state of origin, it may then require state-level authentication. If it's a federal document or from a non-Hague Convention state, it must also receive authentication from the U.S. Department of State.