This article covers information about what forms of identification (ID) can be used for online notarizations. For PS Form 1583, read Acceptable forms of ID for USPS Form 1583.
⚠️ The Proof platform does not accept IDs from a digital wallet or images of an ID taken beforehand; photos of the ID must be captured through the Proof platform.
Acceptable IDs vary by state
ℹ️ Acceptable IDs ultimately depend on the state in which the notary is commissioned. ID requirements vary by state. Notaries have access to specific requirements for the state in which they are commissioned.
Unless you work with a notary you personally know, you could be connected to a notary from any state. Review Knowledge-based Authentication (KBA) for more information.
Acceptable primary ID
The photo IDs listed below are suggestions based on IDs frequently accepted as a valid primary form of ID, but requirements vary by state.
Many states require unexpired IDs, while others allow expired IDs. A notary must enforce whether their state of commission accepts an expired ID and how long after expiration they can accept it.
⚠️ All IDs must include a photographic image of your face. Blurry photos of IDs are not acceptable. You will be asked to retake the photos if the ID is unclear.
Acceptable primary forms of ID may include
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- State ID card
- Passport Card
- Permanent resident card
Acceptable secondary ID
You may or may not need to provide a secondary ID during your session. It is your responsibility to determine if a secondary ID is required and to provide an acceptable secondary ID if needed.
Document requirements
Secondary IDs are always required to have certain documents notarized. For example, the PS1583 form always requires a secondary ID.
Recipient requirements
The governing authority or company requesting the document to be signed/notarized may require a secondary ID.
Secondary IDs for recent name changes
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 if your secondary ID has your current name.
Acceptable secondary forms of ID may include
- Social security card
- U.S. Govt., government-issued visa
- Birth certificate
- Non-U.S./Canadian driver's license
- Most recent, signed tax returns
- Property tax bill
- Voter registration card
- Organizational membership card
- Bank/investment/loan statements
- Paycheck stub with name
- Most recent W-2
- Proof of insurance (homeowners, vehicle, or renters insurance)
- Recent utility bill
All secondary forms of ID must display your name
Not accepted on the Proof platform
Military IDs & Inmate/Prisoner IDs
Due to constraints from our Credential Analysis vendor, Proof cannot accept Inmate/Prisoner IDs or Military IDs (including dependent Military IDs).