Key Takeaways
- Acceptable IDs include passport, driver's license, and government-issued ID cards
- ID may be current or expired no more than 3 years
- Must contain signature or photograph of the individual
- ID must be satisfactory to the notary
- Military and student IDs may be acceptable if government-issued
Last updated: January 2026
Acceptable Identification Documents
Montana law specifies which identification documents constitute satisfactory evidence of identity.
Primary Acceptable Documents
| Document Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Passport | U.S. or foreign; current or expired ≤3 years |
| Driver's License | Any state; current or expired ≤3 years |
| State ID Card | Government-issued; current or expired ≤3 years |
Other Government-Issued IDs
Other forms of government identification may be used if they:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuer | Issued by a government entity |
| Currency | Current or expired no more than 3 years |
| Signature OR Photo | Contains signature or photograph of individual |
| Satisfactory | Acceptable to the notarial officer |
Examples of Other Acceptable IDs
- Military ID
- Student ID (if government-issued)
- Tribal ID
- Foreign national ID cards
- Permanent resident card (green card)
ID Currency Rules
| Status | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| Current (not expired) | YES |
| Expired ≤ 3 years | YES |
| Expired > 3 years | NO |
Example: If today is January 2026, an ID that expired in March 2023 is acceptable (less than 3 years expired). An ID that expired in December 2022 is NOT acceptable (more than 3 years expired).
ID Inspection Checklist
When examining an ID, the notary should check:
- Photo matches the person presenting it
- Name matches the name on the document
- Signature (if present) is consistent
- Expiration date is within acceptable range
- No tampering or alterations visible
- Security features appear authentic
Unacceptable Documents
| Document | Why Unacceptable |
|---|---|
| Social Security card | No photo or signature |
| Credit/debit cards | Not government-issued |
| Birth certificate | No photo |
| Expired ID (>3 years) | Too old |
| Damaged/altered ID | Cannot verify authenticity |
On the Exam
- 3-year rule: IDs can be expired up to 3 years
- Signature OR photo: Required on acceptable ID
- Government-issued: Must be from government entity
- Notary discretion: Notary can always require additional ID
Test Your Knowledge
A signer presents a driver's license that expired 2 years ago. Can the notary accept it?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is required on an acceptable government-issued ID?
A
B
C
D