Proper Identification

(note this is California Based, Because they are the best documented State for Notarial needs. Basics are the same – New York)

Each signer must present at least one of the forms of ID listed below unless the signer is personally known by the Notary. The ID must be current or, if expired, have been issued within the last 5 years; contain the signer’s photograph, personal description, and signature;
and bear a serial or other identifying number.  A document signer personally known by the Notary need not present ID.

Acceptable Forms of ID

		Current driver’s License or non-driver’s ID card issued by a U.S. State.
		Current U.S. Passport
		Current U.S. Military Identification Card that contains all required elements
		stated above, (The Common Access Card (CAC) is not acceptable).
		Current driver’s license issued in Mexico or Canada.
		Current foreign passport stamped by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
		Services (USCIS).
		Current inmate ID Issued by the California Department of Corrections.
		Should the signer not have a valid ID or is not able to sign their name, for any
		reason, the following must be present for the Notarial signing:

		If one witness is personally known by the Notary, then only one witness
		who personally knows the signer needs to appear before the Notary before signing.
		If no witness is personally known by the Notary, then two witnesses
		with valid ID’s who personally know the signer need to appear before the Notary.