identification
When you have a document notarized, you’re essentially asking for certification that you have signed the document and you are who you say you are. Unless you’re a minor or don’t have identification (more on that next time), you’ll need to show some ID.
Your ID can be current or expired, but it must have been issued within the last five years. California-approved IDs fall into two groups:
| Group 1 | Group 2 |
|---|---|
| ✓ Driver’s license or ID card issued by California DMV | ✓ Driver’s license or ID card issued by other US state |
| ✓ US passport or passport card | ✓ Driver’s license issued by Canada or Mexico |
| ✓ Inmate ID issued by California Department of Corrections (in-custody inmates only) | ✓ Passport issued by foreign government |
| ✓ Inmate ID issued by local sheriff’s department (in-custody inmates only) | ✓Military ID* |
| ✓ Employee ID card issued by State of California or by an agency or office of a California city, county, or city and county |
Another form of ID is acceptable as long as it is current or issued within last five years and contains all of the following:
- Photo
- Physical description
- Signature
- Serial number
There is also an exception for notarization of documents required by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) [formerly US Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)]. Any identification accepted by USCIS can also be accepted by a notary.
*Military IDs that don’t meet all four of the requirements listed above are not acceptable.
Have questions about whether your ID is acceptable for notarization? Call us, and we’ll let you know.
