The most common way to get a certificate for shares you already own is to ask your brokerage firm.
If you want a physical certificate for sentimental or gifting reasons, you can follow one of the three primary paths below: 1. Buy Through Your Broker how to buy stock certificates
: Contact your broker's customer service or "securities operations" team to request a physical certificate. The most common way to get a certificate
A transfer agent is the official record-keeper for a corporation. This is often the most direct route. A transfer agent is the official record-keeper for
: Expect high "disincentive" fees ranging from $50 to $500 per certificate. Firms like Charles Schwab have historically charged $500 for this service.
: Some modern brokers no longer offer this service at all. 2. Contact the Company's Transfer Agent
Buying physical stock certificates is possible in 2026, though it is no longer the standard way to own shares. Most companies have transitioned to electronic "book-entry" records or the Direct Registration System (DRS) .