Notarization is an important process that requires proper identification. So, you may be wondering which forms of ID are best for this purpose. Let’s take a look at the primary IDs that are accepted for notarization.
When having documents notarized, proper identification is necessary. It is recommended to use the most commonly accepted forms of ID, such as a government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. These IDs include your name, photo, signature, and other personal details. If you are being notarized online, a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or passport card will be required. Additionally, a birth or naturalization certificate may also be accepted as primary proof of identity depending on your state’s requirements. For active duty or retired members of the armed forces, a military ID is also considered valid proof of identity. Non-citizens must present a valid green card or permanent resident card as their primary ID for notarization purposes. Supplemental identification such as credit/debit cards, employee IDs, or student IDs can also be used but are not sufficient on their own as they lack certain personal details. It is important to bring at least one form of primary ID or two secondary IDs when getting documents notarized. However, the specific number and types of IDs required may vary by state so it’s best to check with your local notary office beforehand. The main goal is to provide documentation that proves your identity beyond
Secondary IDs: Supplementary identification that may be accepted for notarization
In case your primary ID is not accepted, there’s no need to worry as there are alternative options available. Many notaries will accept secondary forms of identification to confirm your identity. For instance, a passport can serve as a great secondary ID as it verifies both your identity and citizenship. Other acceptable forms of identification include birth or naturalization certificates, military IDs, and documents that prove residency such as utility bills or bank statements. It’s important to ensure that the mailing address on these documents matches the one on your primary ID. Students can use their current student ID, transcript, or enrollment verification letter as a secondary form of identification. For minors, a school ID or letter from the school administration can be used.
Not all notaries may accept out-of-state licenses, consular IDs, or green cards as secondary IDs so it’s best to check with them beforehand. The key is to provide documentation that reasonably proves your identity with multiple forms of identification being ideal, especially those with a photo and signature. Feel free to ask the notary about their requirements for secondary IDs ahead of time so you can come prepared and make the process smoother without any potential complications or delays. With the right supplementary identification in hand, getting your documents notarized should be
Is it possible to get a notarized without an ID? Exceptions and alternatives
It is possible to get documents notarized without a traditional government-issued ID in some cases.
Adolescents
Most states will allow a parent or legal guardian to provide ID on your behalf if you’re under 18. As part of the notarization process, your guardian will need to sign the document before the notary in order to verify their identity. Some states may require additional documentation, such as a certified copy of your birth certificate.
Identification of witnesses
In some states, witness identification is an alternative to providing a physical ID. Witnesses will appear before the notary with you to vouch for your identity and confirm it. A notary will record the names and signatures of the witnesses. Some criteria must be met by witnesses, such as citizenship and knowledge of you for a certain period of time.
Identity affidavits
Those who do not have a government-issued ID can use a sworn affidavit of identity. It is a written declaration that confirms your identity, signed under oath in front of a notary. A notary will verify your document’s details by checking public records before notarizing your document. Information such as your name, date of birth, physical description, and residence address will be required.
Seniors’ exceptions
Elderly individuals who are unable to obtain a government ID due to limited mobility or health issues may be granted exceptions by notaries. Alternative measures, such as checking public records and using witnesses or affidavits of identity, can be taken to verify the person’s information in place of a physical ID card. As you can see, there are various options available if you are unable to provide a traditional government-issued ID for notarization purposes. It is important to consult your state’s notary laws and procedures to determine which alternatives may be applicable in your specific situation. With additional steps for verification, you can still have your important documents notarized.
For notarization, how many forms of identification are required?
In most cases, a single government-issued photo ID with your signature is enough to prove your identity when getting a document notarized.
Primary ID forms that are acceptable
For notarization purposes, the following IDs are commonly accepted:
The most common form of ID for notarizations is a driver’s license, as long as it is current and issued by a government agency. However, a passport issued within the last 5 years or an active military ID are also acceptable forms of identification. U.S. permanent residents can use a valid green card as their government-issued photo ID. Some notaries may request additional forms of ID, such as a credit or debit card, social security card, or birth certificate, if there are any discrepancies between the information on your primary ID and the document needing to be notarized. Generally, one valid government-issued photo ID should suffice for most routine notarizations.
Additional ID may be required in certain situations
It is common for notaries to require at least two forms of identification in certain circumstances:
If your main ID is expired or will expire soon, having an additional current ID can confirm your identity. In case the document you need to be notarized contains a name variation or different personal information than what is on your ID, a supporting ID can help resolve any discrepancies. Some notarizations, such as acknowledgments, jurats, and oaths or affirmations, have stricter ID requirements to prevent fraud during these legal proceedings. If the notary is not acquainted with you, they are obligated to thoroughly verify your identity and may request more forms of ID from unknown individuals.
The specific types and amount of identification necessary for notarization vary depending on state regulations and the notary’s own verification policies. However, it is generally advised to bring at least one official government-issued photo ID for a smooth notarization process. It is advisable to also have any supplementary forms of ID on hand, particularly if your situation is unique. As long as you come prepared with proper identification, the notary should be able to handle everything else smoothly..
These documents verify your name and address. Photocopies of IDs are generally not accepted. The notary will need to see the originals.
If I don’t have a government-issued ID, what should I do?
You have a few options if you don’t have a government-issued photo ID:
To obtain your desired notarization, consider applying for a regular ID such as a driver’s license or state ID card. Although it may take some time to obtain, having one will prove useful for various purposes. It is recommended to provide multiple secondary IDs, such as a utility bill, bank statement, Social Security card, and credit/debit card. These combined will suffice in verifying your identity. Some notaries may accept these forms of identification, especially if you are a regular customer, but ultimately it is up to the individual notary’s discretion.
Conclusions on ID and notarization
Therefore, you now possess a comprehensive list of acceptable forms of identification for the purpose of notarization. As mentioned, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is preferred but there are numerous alternatives if those are not available to you. What matters most is that the ID is current, includes your photo, and clearly verifies your identity. With this knowledge, you can confidently bring the appropriate identification to your next notarization appointment. However, if you have any uncertainties or inquiries, do not hesitate to contact the notary beforehand. They would prefer to clarify their ID policy in advance rather than turning you away when you arrive for your appointment. Therefore, ensure that you have fulfilled all requirements and proceed with peace of mind knowing that your identification will not hinder the notarization process.
If you’re ready to get that document notarized?
If you would like to book a mobile notary or inquire about our document preparation services, please call 321-283-6452.
