Acceptable forms of identification for notary services

• State-issued driver's license

• State-issued identification card

• A United States Passport

• U.S. military ID card

• A driver's license issued by another state or by a Canadian or Mexican public agency authorized to issue driver's licenses

• An identification card issued by another state

• A valid consular identification document issued by a consulate from the applicant's country, or a valid passport from the applicant's country of citizenship

• An identification card issued by a federally recognized tribal government

• If the signer is an inmate in custody in a California State Prison, the following is acceptable:

  • • • • An inmate identification card issued by the California Department of Corrections and rehabilitation

• If the signer is an inmate in custody in a local detention facility the following is acceptable:

  • • • • Any form of inmate issued by a sheriff's department

ACCEPTABLE IDENTIFICATION

The primary duty of a Notary Public in California is to verify your identity as the document signer. The most common way they determine that you are who you say you are, is by checking state-issued identification documents, like driver's licenses and passports. Notaries need to see a form of identification that meets requirements set by state law, so please make sure you have acceptable ID for your notarization ahead of time.

If you don't have an ID credential that will work, you might be able to use "credible identifying witnesses." These are people who will swear to the Notary that they know you. If you're able to use this option, your witness(es) must have a form of identification that meets state requirements.

HOW TO GET DOCUMENTS NOTARIZED

If you are a member of the public who needs to have a document notarized, there are several steps you can take to prepare for a smooth notarization. This short guide will explain what customers must bring to a Notary Public and what to expect when requesting notarial services.

Follow these simple steps to get your document notarized:

1. Know what type of notarization you need

2. Make sure the document is complete

3. Bring acceptable identification

4. Ensure the name on your ID matches the name on your document

5. Have all signers present for the notarization

6. Be aware and willing to sign

7. Know what you will be paying

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