A certified copy is an official duplicate of a document that has been verified as a true and accurate representation of the original. This verification is typically done by a government authority or a notary public, who adds a seal or signature to confirm its authenticity. Certified copies are often required for legal purposes, such as applying for a passport or enrolling in school. Common documents that may need certified copies include birth certificates, marriage licenses, and court records. These copies ensure that the information is reliable and can be used in various official transactions without needing to present the original document.