Key Takeaways
- Social Security cards are NOT acceptable identification for notarization
- Birth certificates are NOT acceptable identification
- Municipal ID cards (like New Haven ID) cannot be used as primary ID
- Expired identification documents are not acceptable
- Photocopies and scanned images of IDs are never acceptable
Last updated: January 2026
Unacceptable Identification
Documents Specifically Excluded
The Connecticut Notary Manual specifically excludes certain documents from use as identification:
| Document | Reason for Exclusion |
|---|---|
| Social Security Card | No photograph; identity theft risk |
| Birth Certificate | No photograph; easily obtained by others |
| Municipal ID Cards | Not federal or state government issued |
Municipal ID Card Exclusion
The Municipal Identification Card being issued by New Haven, CT (or similar cards issued by other municipalities) cannot be accepted as primary identification because:
- They are neither federal nor state identification
- They do not meet the statutory requirements for satisfactory evidence
Expired Documents
| Status | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| Current (not expired) | Yes |
| Expired | No |
Important: Even if the document expired recently, it is not acceptable. The ID must be current at the time of notarization.
Copies and Digital Images
| Format | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| Original document | Yes |
| Photocopy | No |
| Scanned image | No |
| Photo on phone | No |
| Digital ID (unless authorized) | Verify state guidance |
Altered or Suspicious Documents
A notary should refuse to accept identification that:
- Appears altered or tampered with
- Has inconsistent information
- Shows signs of forgery
- Has an obscured photo or signature
- Seems suspicious in any way
Best Practice: If you have any doubt about the authenticity of an ID, do not proceed with the notarization. It is better to refuse than to be liable for fraud.
Test Your Knowledge
Why can't a Municipal ID card (like a New Haven city ID) be used as primary identification?
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