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We understand that identifying documents plays a crucial role in notarization, and having the right information is important before getting a document notarized. This simple guide will provide comprehensive information about what type of identifying document is required in a notary, so you can be prepared the next time you need to get a document notarized.

Accepted Identifying Documents for Notarization

To get a document notarized, you must present an acceptable identifying document. Here are some of the most commonly accepted forms of identification:

State-Issued Driving Licence or ID Card

The most common type of identification document used in notarization is a state-issued driving licence or ID card. This document is issued by the state and contains a photograph, signature, and other identifying information, such as the person’s full name, date of birth, and address. When presenting a driving licence or ID card to a notary public, it is important to ensure that the document is valid and has expired.

Passport

Another acceptable form of identification for notarization is a passport. This document is issued by the federal government and contains a photograph, signature, and other identifying information, such as the person’s full name, date of birth, and nationality. When presenting a passport to a notary public, it is important to ensure the document is valid and has not expired.

Military ID

Active duty military personnel and their dependents can present a valid military ID as a form of identification for notarization. This document contains a photograph, signature, and other identifying information, such as the person’s full name, rank, and military branch. When presenting a military ID to a notary public, it is important to ensure that the document is valid and has not expired.

Resident Alien Card

Non-citizens who are legal residents of the United States can present a valid resident alien card as a form of identification for notarization. This document contains a photograph, signature, and other identifying information, such as the person’s full name, date of birth, and immigration status. When presenting a resident alien card to a notary public, it is important to ensure the document is valid and has yet expired.

Other Forms of Identification

Sometimes, a notary public may accept other forms of identification for notarization, such as a tribal identification card, a work ID card, or a student ID card. However, it is important to note that some notaries may only accept these forms of identification, and it is up to the discretion of the notary public to determine whether they are acceptable.

Why Identifying Documents Are Required for Notarization

Identifying documents is required for notarization because notaries are authorized by law to verify the identity of the signer of a document. Notarization is a process by which a notary public, a public official the government authorizes witnessing and certify the signing of important documents, confirms that the signer of a document is whom they claim to be.

To ensure that the signer’s identity is verified, notaries typically require the signer to present one or more forms of identification. The type of identification required can vary depending on the state or country, but it often includes government-issued IDs such as driving licences, passports, or state ID cards.

The notary public will review the identifying documents presented by the signer to confirm that they are valid and that the name and photo on the ID match the person signing the document. This process helps to prevent fraud and ensures that the signer is legally authorized to sign the document.

In some cases, the notary may also keep a record of the identifying documents presented, along with a signature and thumbprint from the signer, as an additional measure to deter fraud and provide evidence of the notarization in the event of a dispute or legal challenge.

What to Expect During the Notarization Process

When visiting a notary public, you will be asked to present a valid form of identification. After signing the document in the notary’s presence, they will affix a seal or stamp to the document as proof of notarization. The notary will then sign and date the document, and you will be responsible for paying the associated notary fee. The notary may also ask you to take an oath or affirmation to confirm the accuracy of the information in the document. Once all the steps have been completed, the document is officially notarized.

Identifying documents is required for notarization to ensure that the person signing the document is whom they claim to be. The most commonly accepted forms of identification include a driving licence, passport, state-issued identification card, military identification card, and tribal identification card.

By understanding what type of identifying document is required in a notary, you can be prepared for your next notarization appointment and ensure that your document is notarized promptly and efficiently. If you have questions about the notarization process, ask your notary public for clarification.