Refers to a document certifying that someone has been granted a qualification, rank, or permission. Often more document-focused, formal, or traditional than everyday 免許.
I received a certificate from my tea ceremony teacher.
She holds an instructor's license.
Used for a diploma or graduation certificate, especially in compounds such as 卒業免状. In modern everyday Japanese, 卒業証書 or 学位記 is often more common depending on the context.
My grandfather's diploma turned up in the closet.
It takes many years to obtain a doctor's license.
At the end of the ceremony, I received my graduation diploma.
He holds a driving license.
The prefecture issued a new teaching certificate.
seamen's competency certificate
passport (historical)
pilot's license; flying certificate