You get a certified check in person from a bank or credit union, usually at a branch where you already have an account.

What a certified check is

A certified check is a personal check that your bank stamps and signs to confirm two things: that the account exists and that the money is set aside for that check. This makes it more secure for the payee than a regular personal check, especially for larger or important payments like a car or a rental deposit.

Where you can get one

You generally need to go to:

  • A traditional bank branch where you have a checking account.
  • Some credit unions that still offer certified checks at their teller windows.
  • In many cases, if a bank does not offer certified checks, it may instead offer a cashier’s check, which serves a similar purpose for many transactions.

Not all banks still provide certified checks, and many online-only banks do not offer them at all.

What you need to bring

When you go to get a certified check, plan to bring:

  • Your checkbook, since a certified check is your own check that the bank certifies.
  • A government-issued photo ID so the teller can verify your identity.
  • The exact amount and the payee’s name, because the bank will confirm you have enough funds and then lock those funds for that check.

Banks typically charge a fee, often in the range of about 5–20 dollars, depending on the institution.

Important limitations

Certified checks are usually not available:

  • Online or through a mobile app, because the bank needs to physically verify and stamp the check.
  • From many modern or online-only banks, which instead may recommend a cashier’s check or other secure payment method.

If you are unsure, calling your bank in advance to confirm whether they still offer certified checks and what they charge can save time.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.