Key Takeaways
- Identity must be verified through personal knowledge OR satisfactory evidence
- Acceptable IDs include government-issued photo IDs that are current and unexpired
- Arizona driver's license and U.S. passport are most common forms of ID
- If ID is expired or questionable, notarization should be refused
- Credible witnesses can be used when ID is unavailable
Satisfactory Evidence of Identity
Identity verification is your PRIMARY duty as a notary. Before performing any notarial act, you must be confident that the person before you is who they claim to be.
Two Methods of Identification
Arizona recognizes two methods for verifying identity:
| Method | Description | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Knowledge | You personally know the signer | Long-term acquaintance |
| Satisfactory Evidence | Documentary proof of identity | Most common method |
Personal Knowledge
Personal knowledge means you have a relationship with the signer that gives you confidence in their identity:
| Acceptable | NOT Acceptable |
|---|---|
| Family member you know well | Someone you just met |
| Long-time friend | Brief business acquaintance |
| Coworker you've known for years | Someone introduced to you today |
| Neighbor you interact with regularly | Someone who "looks familiar" |
Caution: Personal knowledge claims can be challenged in court. Be certain you truly know the person.
Satisfactory Evidence: Acceptable IDs
The most reliable method is checking government-issued photo identification:
| Primary IDs (Most Reliable) | Secondary IDs (If no primary available) |
|---|---|
| U.S. Passport or Passport Card | Foreign passport with U.S. visa |
| Arizona Driver's License | Military ID with photo |
| Arizona Non-Driver ID | Tribal enrollment card with photo |
| U.S. Permanent Resident Card | State-issued ID from other states |
ID Requirements
For an ID to be acceptable, it must meet these criteria:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Current | Not expired |
| Photo | Clear photograph of the bearer |
| Physical description | Height, weight, or other identifiers |
| Signature | Matches signature on document |
| Government-issued | Issued by government agency |
Examining IDs
When checking an ID, look for:
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Photo | Does it match the person? |
| Physical description | Height, weight, eye color match? |
| Signature | Consistent with how they sign? |
| Expiration | Is it current? |
| Security features | Holograms, microprinting |
| Tampering | Signs of alteration |
Red Flags
Refuse the notarization if you notice:
| Red Flag | Action |
|---|---|
| Expired ID | Refuse notarization |
| Photo doesn't match | Refuse notarization |
| Signs of tampering | Refuse notarization |
| Signer nervous/evasive | Ask more questions |
| Pressure to rush | Slow down, be thorough |
Recording ID Information
In your journal, record:
| Information | Example |
|---|---|
| Type of ID | "Arizona Driver's License" |
| ID number | "#D12345678" |
| Expiration date | "01/15/2028" |
| Issuing authority | "Arizona MVD" |
On the Exam
Identity questions focus on:
- Two methods: Personal knowledge and satisfactory evidence
- Acceptable IDs: Government-issued, photo, current
- What to check: Photo, description, expiration, signature
- When to refuse: Expired ID, no match, suspicious circumstances
What are the TWO methods for verifying a signer's identity in Arizona?
Which of the following is NOT an acceptable form of ID for notarization?