Notarized” and “certified” sound like similar terms, but they are not interchangeable and do not have the same function.
A certified translation does not require a notary. It’s a word-for-word translation accompanied by a certificate of accuracy that is signed by the supervising agent of the translating company. This certificate also includes the identification of the translator and the date. The statement affirms that the translation is complete, accurate, and was done by a qualified translator.
A notarized translation involves an official notary who must be present to witness the statement of accuracy being signed by the translator. The notary will verify the identity of the translator, witness it being signed, and will give it an official stamp.
A notarized translation does not need to be certified, and a certified translation does not need to be notarized. However, for some administrative requirements (such as academic institutions) the translation must be certified and notarized.