Knowledge Base

This article explains the validation process for obtaining a DigiCert Verified Mark Certificate (VMC), including the prerequisites, validation steps, and recommendations to help avoid delays during certificate issuance.

Overview

Verified Mark Certificates (VMCs) enable organizations to display their registered trademark logo in supported email clients, helping recipients identify authentic email messages and strengthening brand recognition.

Because a VMC represents your organization's verified identity, DigiCert performs additional validation beyond the standard Extended Validation (EV) certificate process. These additional validation checks help prevent attackers from impersonating your organization and help reduce the risk of fraudulent certificate issuance.

Validation typically takes between one business day and more than a week, depending on your readiness and how quickly validation requirements are completed. Monitor your email and voicemail throughout the process, as the DigiCert Validation team may contact you for additional information.

Prerequisites

Before ordering a VMC, ensure you have completed the following:

• Configure a DMARC policy of p=quarantine or p=reject.
• Register your logo with an accepted trademark office.
• Prepare an SVG logo that complies with BIMI and VMC requirements.
• Have your trademark registration number and trademark office details available.

Validation process

Step 1: Organization and domain validation

DigiCert validates your organization’s legal existence and confirms your control over the domain associated with your VMC request using Extended Validation (EV) standards. No action is required unless additional information is requested.

Step 2: SVG logo validation

1. Upload your SVG logo in CertCentral. 
2. DigiCert validates that the SVG complies with BIMI requirements and exactly matches your registered trademark.

Step 3: Trademark verification

1. Provide your trademark registration number and the name of the issuing trademark office (when uploading your logo). 
2. A Validation Specialist verifies that the submitted logo matches the official trademark registration.

Step 4: Identity verification

The individual requesting the VMC must be verified as an authorized representative of the organization.

Choose one of the following verification methods:

• Web video verification with a DigiCert Validation Specialist.
• Identity declaration completed by a DigiCert-approved notary or lawyer.

Note: For video verification, present a valid government-issued photo ID, complete a brief liveness check, join from a well-lit location, and disable virtual backgrounds.

Step 5: Final approval

1. After all validation requirements are complete, the Extended Validation (EV) Approver receives a final approval email. 
2. Once approved, DigiCert issues the Verified Mark Certificate.

Tips to avoid delays

• Verify your DMARC policy before placing your order.
• Ensure your SVG exactly matches your registered trademark.
• Prepare your government-issued photo ID before scheduling identity verification.
• Upload identity documents only through the secure upload link provided by DigiCert.
• Respond promptly to requests from the Validation team and the final approval email.

Related information

• Getting Ready for BIMI: Prepare your logo
• Qualifying for a VMC – How to Trademark Your Logo
• BIMI requirements
• DMARC requirements
• Manage your VMC and CMC certificates

Need help?

If you have questions during the validation process, contact your DigiCert representative or DigiCert Customer Support. Our Validation Specialists are available to guide you through every stage of validation.