The aim of the article is to provide an insight into the problems faced by candidates for sworn translators of German associated with the correct application of formal rules for the production of certified translations. The material to be analysed consists of 30 translations done by trainees preparing for the sworn translator examination as part of an online course. The theoretical part includes a brief characterization of certified translation and a description of the formal rules governing its production. The empirical part analyses the translations of candidates in terms of compliance with the formal requirements. Finally, the analysis carried out is summarised and conclusions are presented.