Prefer a visual guide?
Download the complete design reference with layout samples and visual examples here: FilPass Template Design Guidelines
You may also continue reading below for the complete text-based guide.
Introduction
A well-designed certificate reflects your organization’s credibility and professionalism. Whether it’s for training, events, recognition, or accreditation, following proper design standards ensures clarity, consistency, and system compatibility.
This guide outlines:
- Good vs. bad design practices
- Required certificate variables
- Approved fonts in the system
- Submission requirements
- QR code and Credential ID placement
- Layout options
1. Good vs. Bad Certificate Design
Understanding the difference between professional and poor design is essential.
What Makes a Good Design?
A certificate should have:
- Clear and identifiable logo
- High-resolution logo (800x800 DPI recommended)
- Multicolored logo (if applicable)
- Readable fonts (1–3 font styles only)
- Use of corporate/standard colors
- Proper whitespace (no overlapping text)
- High-resolution and visible QR code
- Consistent formatting throughout
- Complete certificate details
Common Design Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid certificates that have:
- Logo that is too small, low-resolution, or monochromatic (if branding requires color)
- Multiple font styles causing inconsistency
- Random or distracting color combinations
- Overlapping text
- Distorted or hidden QR codes
- Inconsistent layout or formatting
- Missing required variables or certificate details
A poorly designed certificate reduces credibility and may not be approved for system use.
2. Required Certificate Content (Variables)
Each certificate must contain complete and accurate details. Variables may vary depending on the template, but commonly include:
Standard Certificate Variables:
- Printed Name
- Event Title
- Event Date
- SO Number (ROI)
- SO Date
- Event Location
- Course
- Training Hours
- Role
- Certificate Number
- License Number
Note: Variables may vary per template design. Adjust or add variables depending on your specific use case.
Incomplete certificates may be rejected for lacking required details.
3. Available Fonts in the System
Only the following fonts are supported and licensed in the system:
- Arial
- Lato
- Helvetica
- Aktiv Grotesk / Aktiv Grotesk Corp
- Montserrat
- Lucida Grande
- Arial MT / Arial Narrow
- Multicolore
- NewsGothicStd
- Veranda
- Calibri
- ITC Galliard
- Roboto / Roboto Mono
- IM Fell French Canon SC
- Great Vibes
- Alex Brush
- Candara
- Stencil
- Tahoma
- Bodoni MT
- Archivo Narrow
- Cloister Black
- Courier New
- Raleway
- Old English Text MT
- Optima
- Pinyon Script
Can I Use a Font Not on the List?
Yes, but only for default backgrounds.
However:
- Fonts not listed cannot be added as system variables.
- Custom fonts may not be supported for dynamic rendering.
To avoid compatibility issues, it’s best to use the approved font list.
4. What You Need to Submit
To process your certificate template, you must submit:
Required Files:
- Certificate template with QR Code and Credential ID
- One (1) certificate template with dummy characters
- One (1) blank certificate template
Accepted File Types:
Paper Size
Specify your document’s paper size:
- A4
- US Letter
- Or other standard size
Clearly indicate this during submission.
5. Dummy Certificate Template Requirements
You must provide:
1️⃣ Dummy Version
A certificate version with placeholder/dummy characters showing layout positioning.
2️⃣ Blank Version
A blank certificate that still includes:
These versions help validate formatting and system compatibility before live implementation.
6. QR Code & Credential ID Placement
The QR code and Credential ID are critical components and must follow layout rules.
Bottom Alignment (Recommended Option)
- QR code must be placed underneath the content
- You may align it:
Upper Alignment Option
- QR code must be placed above the content
- You may align it:
Important Guidelines:
- QR code must be high-resolution
- QR code must not be distorted
- QR code must not be too small
- Credential ID should be aligned consistently with the QR code
Improper QR code placement can cause scanning issues and rejection.
7. Layout Options for Printed Names
Certificates may accommodate:
- One-liner names
- Two-liner names
Ensure:
- Proper spacing
- No text overlap
- Alignment consistency
- Font size that maintains readability
Always design with longer names in mind to avoid layout breaking.
8. Design Consistency Checklist
Before submission, confirm:
✔ Logo is clear and high-resolution
✔ Fonts are limited to 1–3 styles
✔ Colors follow corporate branding
✔ Text spacing is clean and readable
✔ QR code is clear and properly placed
✔ Format is consistent throughout
✔ All required variables are included
A professional certificate design ensures credibility, consistency, and system compatibility. By following these guidelines, you minimize revisions and ensure smooth implementation.