The two main routes
One route is a friend, colleague, neighbour or similar person who has known the donor well for at least two years. They need to be more than a casual acquaintance.
The other route is a person with relevant professional skills, such as the donor's doctor or lawyer, or another professional able to make the required judgement.
Independence matters
There are restrictions on who can act. For example, the donor's attorneys and certain family members cannot simply act as the certificate provider.
Because the full exclusion list is detailed, check the current Office of the Public Guardian guidance if you are unsure about a particular relationship.
What does the certificate provider confirm?
They confirm that the donor understands the significance of the document, has not been put under pressure, and that there is no fraud or other reason for concern.
Where possible, the Office of the Public Guardian guidance recommends discussing the document with the donor privately before signing.
When do they sign?
The donor signs first. The certificate provider then signs section 10 after the donor and before the attorneys sign their sections.
Getting this order wrong can prevent registration, which is why the signing sequence should be followed carefully.
Common questions
Questions people ask about this
Can a family member be my certificate provider?
Many close family relationships are excluded. Check the current Office of the Public Guardian list for the exact relationship you have in mind.
Does the person always need to have known me for two years?
No. The two-year route is one option. A suitably skilled professional can also qualify.
Can the certificate provider sign after my attorneys?
No. The donor signs first, then the certificate provider, then the attorneys.
Official guidance used for this guide
We use current Office of the Public Guardian and GOV.UK guidance as the primary reference for legal and registration information.
General information for England and Wales, not individual legal advice. Government rules, fees and processing times can change. Check current official guidance before registration.