In most cases, you can request a secondary form of identification, but the specific type of ID required varies based on the regulations of your state. Some states have stringent criteria for the types of identification that can be used, while others are more flexible. In some states, the decision on what ID to accept is left to the discretion of the Notary.
One common challenge faced by Notaries is the discrepancy between the appearance of the signer and their ID photo or description. However, this does not necessarily indicate that the signer is an imposter. In many states, ID photos are not updated for long periods, leading to significant changes in a person's appearance over time. For instance, in Arizona, standard driver's license and ID card photos are updated only every 12 years until the driver turns 60, although REAL ID-compliant Voluntary Travel IDs issued by the Arizona Department of Transportation must be renewed every eight years.
States with strict ID regulations, such as Florida, California, and Tennessee, provide specific lists of acceptable IDs that Notaries must adhere to when verifying a signer's identity. These lists typically include state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards, U.S. and sometimes foreign passports, and other designated U.S. or government-issued IDs. If you work in a state with strict ID rules, ensure you are familiar with the specific IDs permitted under your state's Notary laws.
In states with general ID rules, such as North Carolina and Texas, the laws outline the necessary elements an ID must possess without specifying particular acceptable IDs. Notaries in these states have a broader range of supplementary IDs available that comply with the general requirements set by law.
Some states lack specific ID requirements but may offer optional guidelines for Notaries to follow. For example, Alabama suggests an ID document with a photo, physical description, and signature, while Arkansas recommends a government-issued ID card with a picture and signature. In these states, Notaries have more discretion in determining acceptable supplementary IDs, as they are required to satisfy their own judgment rather than conforming to a particular state law.
While university IDs or library cards may be considered in some cases, it is essential to remember that Social Security cards and similar documents are easily counterfeited and lack crucial elements for identity verification, such as a photo and physical description. If you have doubts about the primary ID presented, do not compromise on the standards for accepting a supplementary ID. Always bear in mind your responsibility when certifying the identity of a signer.
Regarding marriage licenses, Notaries often inquire about their validity as supplementary IDs, particularly when a newly married individual is using their married name but possesses an ID in their maiden name. Since marriage licenses typically contain limited identifying information, it is not recommended to rely on them as supplementary IDs.
Comments