Before meeting with a notary, online or in-person, it's important to make sure you have the proper form(s) of identification available and ready.
Pat Kinsel May 16, 2022 Updated Jan 23, 2024Before meeting with a notary, online or in-person, it's important to make sure you have the proper form(s) of identification available and ready. ID requirements vary by state. Your notary will have access to specific requirements for the state in which they are commissioned. It's also important to note that blurry photos of IDs are not acceptable. If the ID is not clear, you will be asked to retake the photos. A U.S. social security number is also required in order to verify identity.
All IDs must include a photographic image of your face:
If you've recently changed your name and it no longer matches the ID you're using for identity verification purposes, you must provide a secondary ID that reflects your new name. Your primary ID can have your former name as long as your secondary ID has your current name.
All secondary forms of ID must display your name (the signer's name):