Guide · Certified translations
Which documents and translations are needed for a DAB?
The digital statement on vocational qualifications concerns vocational training awards. A focused document list helps distinguish a DAB from an academic assessment and professional recognition.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
The DAB concerns non-academic vocational qualifications. The online application identifies whether a particular record needs translating. ZAB assesses the original-language records; an additional translation does not replace them. For university degrees, check the Statement of Comparability procedure instead.
Choose the appropriate assessment route
First establish the type of qualification you hold and the application requiring the statement. The name of your school or training institution alone does not reliably identify the qualification type.
A DAB does not replace professional recognition in a regulated occupation. Use ZAB’s procedural guidance before ordering a translation for a potentially unsuitable application.
Read more: ZAB: digital statement on vocational qualifications FAQ
Record the documents and translation needs
Create a shared inventory of the training certificate and supporting records. Note the original language, page count and translation instruction shown in the application beside each item.
If a record must follow later, identify the current set clearly. Name later additions so older and newer files cannot easily be confused.
Check final versions before submission
Compare source and translation for document type, names and page coverage. Raise a different name spelling with supporting evidence so it can be discussed in context.
Retain your checklist and the submitted file versions. If questions arise, you can identify exactly what was already supplied and which addition is newly requested.
Your next steps
Establish qualification type and application purpose.
Obtain the current DAB document requirements.
Match sources with any required translations.
Submit complete final versions in your application.
More questions
Is a DAB the right assessment for a bachelor’s degree?
The DAB concerns non-academic qualifications. Check ZAB’s Statement of Comparability for a university degree.
Must the source record be included too?
An additionally requested translation does not replace the original-language record. Keep both available.
Is the DAB itself a translation of my qualification?
The official statement and the translation of a training certificate are different services.
Sources and further reading
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
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