Legal limitations; 9 - 15- Page 121

MAKING COPIES   

9 - 15

Legal limitations

Color reproductions of certain documents are illegal and may result 
in either criminal or civil liability. This memorandum is intended to be 
a guide rather than a complete listing of every possible prohibition. In 
case of doubt, we suggest that you check with counsel as to any 
particular questionable documents.

The following documents issued by the United States/Canadian 
Government or any of its Agencies may not be copied:

■

Money

■

Bonds or other certificates of indebtedness

■

Certificates of Deposit

■

Internal Revenue Stamps (canceled or uncanceled)

■

Selective Service or draft papers

■

Passports

■

United States/Canadian Postage Stamps (canceled or 
uncanceled)

■

Food Stamps

■

Immigration Papers

■

Checks or drafts drawn by Governmental agencies

■

Identifying badges or insignias

Copyrighted works cannot be copied. Sections of a copyrighted work 
can be copied for ‘fair use.’ Multiple copies would indicate improper 
use.

Works of art should be considered the equivalent of copyrighted 
works.

Licenses and Certificates of Title to motor vehicles may not be 
copied under certain state/provincial laws.