Create QR code certificates and boost the credibility of your digital credentials

Renew your professional certificates with QR codes. Increase security, build credibility, and offer instant verification. Just a quick scan lets recipients and their networks confirm the validity of your credentials. Adding QR codes builds your reputation as a forward-thinking issuer. No design expertise? No problem! Certifier empowers you to create hundreds of sleek, professional-looking credentials equipped with a unique QR code for certificate in minutes.

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The tool that combines the power of a certificate maker and QR code generator

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How to generate QR codes for certificates with Certifier?

Certifier allows you to add a QR code for certificate to all credentials you issue. Not only will you enable recipients to verify their credentials, but you'll also enhance your reputation as a reliable certificate issuer. Follow the steps below to learn how to create an e-certificate powered by QR codes through Certifier.

Step 1: Sign up for Certifier

Create a free Certifier account to unlock access to an integrated design tool with a QR code certificate generator. It's easy to use and doesn't require any design skills.

The Certifier free account includes over a thousand fully customizable QR code certificate templates. It means that you can easily create QR code certificates customized to your branding and aesthetic preferences. Best of all? It literally takes you a few minutes to generate easily scannable credentials!

Sign up page to Certifier to create certificates with QR codes.

Step 2: Choose the customizable certificate template

To start creating your electronic certificates, go to the Designs tab. If you've already signed up for Certifier and worked on certificate designs in the past, simply select the design you want to edit. If not, create a new one, choosing between a certificate or badge design.

Creating a certificate design with a QR code within the Certifier platform.

Go to the Templates section on the left-hand side of the dashboard to browse through 1000+ professionally designed certificate and badge templates in Certifier's collection. Whether you're looking for an elegant certificate design or a stylish badge, we offer a range of templates for every use case.

Simply go through the templates and select the one that best suits your preferences and branding needs. You can filter the templates by category, style, orientation, and color using Filters.

Selecting the QR code certificate template within the Certifier certificate tool.

Please note: You don’t have to choose the template with a QR code placeholder. With Certifier, you can easily add a QR code to every template you wish (even the certificate design you create from scratch). 

Step 3: Personalize your chosen certificate template

All of Certifier’s templates are easily customizable. To personalize the look of your chosen template, you can remove any unwanted elements and upload your own (such as signatures, a custom background, or your company logo).

Then, personalize the text in the pre-designed fields. You can change how the text looks – its size, thickness, color, and font type. You can also adjust the colors of different elements to align with your brand identity and rearrange them to achieve your desired final look.

Customizing the QR code certificate template.

Remember about dynamic attributes. Does this [recipient.name] catch your attention? It’s a so-called dynamic attribute with the content that will be adjusted to the particular recipient. The tool will automatically fill it out with the appropriate data, which allows for mass certificate creation with QR code. It will also adjust the size of the section accordingly, so your certificates will remain neat no matter how long the recipient's name is. Cool, right?

Adding dynamic attributes to generate QR code certificates.

Step 4: Choose the correct type of QR code for certificate

Once the certificate design is done, it’s time to add a QR code for document verification. To do this, navigate to the QR code generator tool in the left-hand panel. You have two options to choose from.

#1 The Verification Page option (recommended) enhances the credibility of your certificates. It links each QR code to a live, digital version of the certificate (called a digital wallet) that allows for:

  • One-click verification: Instant authentication by anyone (multi-language dashboard).

  • Social media sharing: Easy sharing on platforms like LinkedIn, X, and Facebook, increasing your brand visibility.

  • PDF downloads: Convenient saving and printing options.

  • Issuer’s online links: Direct access to your website and social media.

  • Expiration-free preview: Recipients can access the digital version of their certificates even after the certificate itself has expired.

  • Tracking: Verification-page QR codes are trackable, which allows you to analyze how many times recipients scanned them.

Adding QR code to the certificate as a verification page.

To sum up: Linking the QR code to the professional verification page gives issuers more possibilities and control over user experience (custom CTAs, support requests, 24/7 access). It also allows recipients to take desired actions with their digital credentials mentioned above (instead of sending them to a static page).

#2 The Custom URL option generates a QR code for a certificate that redirects to a specified URL (website, sign-up page, course/training/program landing page). To choose this option, just click on it and type in the URL.

Adding a QR code to the certificate with a static custom URL.

Keep in mind: Choosing a custom URL for your QR codes is an inferior option to the Verification Page QR code. It carries the risk of becoming unscannable if there are issues with the domain, hosting, or server. This could significantly disrupt the user experience of your recipients.

Step 5: Add a QR code authentication for certificates

Choose the preferred option and add a QR code. Then, resize it and place it wherever you see fit.

Is there a recommended placement on the certificate for the QR code? The best places for a QR code are the corners of your design or anywhere it won't overlap with important details. Make sure to place the QR on a clean background and leave some space around it so that it can be visible. This ensures it'll be easy to scan and won't cover key information.

Adding the QR code on the certificate to the verification page.

Can I add multiple QR codes to a single certificate, each leading to different information? Yes, but even though Certifier provides it, we don’t recommend doing that as it can mislead your recipients. Stick to just one QR code to maximize its performance.

Step 5.1: Change the color of the QR code 

Your QR code doesn’t have to be black. With Certifier, you can easily change its color to match your branding and the aesthetic of your document. Make sure there is enough contrast to make it stand out on a dark background. To do so, select your code and change the QR code background or foreground color at the top of the editor.

Changing the QR code color within the Certifier dashboard.

5.2: Test the QR code

Once you customize the design of your certificate and add the QR code, take a careful look at the entire document. Make sure everything is correct, including the QR code. To test the code, simply scan it with your phone. If it’s easy to scan, it’ll prompt a yellow notification that says, “Your QR will scan!” It will redirect you to the Google search results (which will then be replaced with the appropriate link).

Check out more pro tips and the QR code creation process close-up (watch video).

Scanning the QR code on the certificate that leads to the verification page.

Can recipients scan the QR code on any device to access the linked information? QR codes on digital certificates work the same way as QR codes on restaurant menus. This means that your recipients can scan the QR code on any smartphone or mobile device equipped with a QR code reader. This allows them to easily access the information linked to the QR code and allows them and others to quickly verify their certificate details whenever and wherever they need.

Step 6: Issue and send your QR code certificate

Once you have checked that the QR code is generated correctly, you can save your design by clicking the Create Certificate Design button in the right-hand corner of the design editor.

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The pop-up window will prompt you to upload the recipients’ data. You can do that both ways, depending on how many QR code certificates you have to issue:

  • Few QR code certificates: Choose the manual option to type in the recipient’s details one by one.

  • Mass certificate creation with QR code: Upload the recipients’ data from the spreadsheet (use this template). It’s usually enough to use just two columns – the recipient’s name and email address.

Uploading the recipients details within the QR code certificate generator.

Next, you have to map out the recipients' data with the appropriate dynamic attributes. The process is super simple, it will allow you to generate validate QR code diplomas with a few clicks.

Mapping out the data from the spreadsheet with the Certificate attributes.

Before sending the certificate to your recipients' list, you can preview what they will see after they receive their credentials. After adding your recipients' details, click Preview Before Publishing at the top right. This will show you how your certificate will appear when filled with each recipient's information. You'll also be able to see a preview of the email they'll receive containing their credential.

After confirming that the details on the certificate are accurate, that there are no design errors, and that the QR code is functional, you're all set to share your certificate with the recipients' list. To do that, simply click the Issue Credentials button. This action will email the corresponding certificate to each recipient you've listed. You’ve got it!

This is what your recipients will see after opening their certificate via the certificate link:

The verification page that can be accessed through the QR code on the certificate.

Please note: The QR code be visible and scannable in both digital and printed versions of the certificate. Whether you generate a PDF QR code and display it on the screen of your computer or a printed document, the QR code on your certificate will be easily scannable (as long as you ensure it’s placed correctly and that there’s enough contrast ratio between the color of your QR code and the certificate’s background).

They’ve already loved Certifier’s QR code authentication for certificates

Certifier is extremely easy to use! I was able to send a professional development certificate to over 400 people with ease and I loved that I was able to upload my own elements.

Cheri Mills - avatar

Cheri Mills

Academic Technology Specialist

Great platform to manage and deploy online certifications! Intuitive, easy to use. The email functionality and flexibility to design custom certificates were really helpful...

Colin Minte - avatar

Colin Minte

Marketing Director

Certifier is solving the need to design a plethora of certificates. I can import backgrounds for the credentials I am issuing... it's given me an edge.

Mazeed Mukhtar Oyeleye - avatar

Mazeed Mukhtar Oyeleye

Content Strategist

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A comprehensive solution for all your certification needs. Create, send and manage digital credentials online using Certifier.

The simplest way to mass certificate creation with QR code

Make your certificates instantly verifiable - picture

Make your certificates instantly verifiable

Imagine giving out a certificate that anyone can verify with just a quick scan. That's the power of adding a QR code to your certificates. This simple step not only proves the legitimacy of the documents you're issuing but also boosts how others perceive your organization. It makes every e-certificate powered by QR codes look trustworthy (and impossible to counterfeit!).

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Strengthen your reputation

By using QR codes on certificates, you make it super easy for recipients to check and show off their credentials. It's a smart move that sets you apart as an innovative leader. It also puts you ahead in the game by showcasing your commitment to security and modern solutions. You will gain broader adoption and trust.

Distribute credentials in minutes and save time - picture

Distribute credentials in minutes and save time

With our QR code certificate generator, you can whip up a batch of certificates in no time. Each one will have its own QR code, ready for instant validation. This means no more manual distribution headaches – each document is ready for mass certificate creation with QR code in less time. You create, recipients verify!

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Prevent fraud and fake certificates

Tired of worrying about fake certificates? A QR code embeds secure data that can't be seen unless scanned. A brilliant feature cuts down on fraud and keeps your credentials safe. It’s a simple way to guard against counterfeit documents and protect your institution. QR codes to control certificate counterfeiting turn your documents into an authenticity fortress.

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Provide instant access to information

Each QR code for certificate acts like a gateway, offering anyone with a smartphone a peek into the certificate's background – like who issued it and when it expires. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and security. This quick access fosters confidence and is crucial for QR code authentication for certificates, making verification smooth and easy.

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Improve customer satisfaction

When recipients use a QR code to verify their certificates, they're seeing your commitment to transparency and ease. This trust builds stronger relationships and shows that your institution is all about providing value, not just a piece of paper. QR codes for verify documents enhance user experience and satisfaction. Find out for yourself!

Certifier is the only QR code generator for certificate you need

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Did you know?

Did you know that more and more people use QR codes in their day-to-day lives? Around 72% of mobile users scan a QR code at least once every month, and about 32% do it once a week. Global QR code usage is on the rise across all industries, from marketing to hospitality and even education. QR codes provide an easy way for consumers to access information instantly from their smartphones. Integrating QR codes into your credentials can help you increase the number of interactions with your certificates and make them more engaging and dynamic for your recipients!

Create and send QR code certificates in a matter of minutes

Use Certifier’s QR code certificate generator to create, issue and track highly personalized QR code certificates & badges in minutes.

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Best practices to include QR codes on certificates to provide authenticity of your course

Make sure your QR code is easily scannable for quick verification

When you create certificate with QR code, it’s like giving your recipients a magic key. They can instantly access and verify their official documents just by scanning. But remember, the magic only works if the QR code is easy to spot and scan. To keep it user-friendly, place your QR code on a clean background. It should be big enough to catch the eye without overwhelming the certificate's design. Use a QR code generator for certificates that allow you to test them first. With Certifier, you can make sure your QR codes are perfect before they go live.

Place the QR code strategically and make it easier to scan

Think of placing a QR code on your certificate like playing a strategic game. You want it to be noticeable but not intrusive. The best spots are often the corners where they’re out of the way yet easy to find. Make sure there’s a bit of space around your QR code to avoid a crowded look. This setup not only makes the code easier to scan but also keeps your document looking neat and professional. When you position the QR code smartly, it guides the recipient's eyes naturally, from paper to screen. And it’s just a step away from giving some spotlight on your business.

Customize the look of your QR code to catch the readers’ attention

Who says QR codes have to be plain black and white? With Certifier, you can add a splash of color to make your QR codes pop! Customize the colors to match your brand, choosing shades for both the foreground and background that fit your document's design. This not only makes your certificates look sharp but also boosts your brand's visibility. Change the size as well to fit well with the design. A QR code that reflects your corporate colors? That’s the professionalism with a personal touch!

Use a color that contrasts with the background color of your certificate

It’s all about visibility when it comes to QR codes. Ensure there's a strong contrast between your QR code and the background of your certificate. A QR code that blends into its background is like a camouflaged animal – it might look cool, but it won’t be noticed when needed. Test the scanability of your QR code by trying it out on your phone. If it scans without a hitch, you’ve nailed the contrast. Look for the message “Your QR will scan!” This simple check can save a lot of scanning headaches later!

Use dynamic QR codes instead of static ones

Going dynamic gives you the flexibility that static QR codes just can't match. Dynamic QR codes can be updated to change the URL they lead to, even after they've been created and distributed. At Certifier, it means that you can make changes without needing to reissue a new certificate! The issuer can change not only direct links but also information about the course, the date, and all the elements visible on the verification QR page. A smart choice that prevents you from having dead links in your certification.

Make sure that the QR code certificate is not expirable

Make sure your QR code certificates stand the test of time. When you use custom URLs for your QR codes, remember that these are dependent on your domain and server's reliability. If something goes awry with your hosting, it might render the QR codes unscannable. Choose the Certifier’s verification page option to make QR codes non-expirable. This means your recipients can always access the digital version of their certificates – even long after the physical certificates have expired.

Avoid broken links and misinformation so as not to miss any opportunity

Keep your QR codes fresh and accurate to sidestep the risk of broken links or outdated info. Imagine the confusion when a recipient scans a QR code and hits a dead-end or finds incorrect data – it doesn’t look good for your reputation as a reliable digital credential issuer. At Certifier, we know how to prevent that. You can choose between two options: custom URL and verification page. In the second case, your QR code will always make the verification process smooth for users. Even after your course ends, your QR code will always remain accessible.

Customize the QR code verification page to boost engagement

As you already know, Certifier provides the verification page. But you may not know yet that it can be fully branded. You can change the CTAs, links or add your logo. You can even include some additional documents to download. Within the page, all stakeholders can check the certificate’s authenticity with just one click. It’s a small touch that really enhances the user experience and makes the verification process super simple. The icing on the cake? Your recipients can report a problem, share the certificate on social media, or download the credential to PDF, all from there.

Got a question?

Find the answers to the most popular questions about a QR code certificate generator. If you can’t find an answer to your question, get in touch with us!

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Secure, verify, and build trust with the best QR code certificate generator

Creating certificates in bulk doesn’t have to be harsh. A mass certificate creation with QR code using Certifier is simple and easy. Check it out.