Key Takeaways
- ID must be current (not expired)
- ID must include a photograph of the person's face
- ID must include signature OR physical description
- ID must be issued by federal, state, or recognized tribal government
- At least one acceptable ID is required
Last updated: January 2026
Acceptable Identification Documents
Under G.S. 10B-3, satisfactory evidence can be established through at least one current government-issued identification document.
Requirements for Acceptable ID
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current | Not expired |
| Issuing Authority | Federal, state, or federally/state-recognized tribal government |
| Photo | Photographic image of the individual's face |
| Signature OR Description | Either the individual's signature OR a physical description |
Examples of Acceptable ID
| ID Type | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's License | State DMV | Most common form of ID |
| State ID Card | State DMV | For non-drivers |
| U.S. Passport | Federal government | Contains photo and signature |
| U.S. Passport Card | Federal government | Wallet-sized passport alternative |
| Military ID | Department of Defense | Must contain photo |
| Permanent Resident Card | USCIS (Green Card) | Federal government issued |
| Tribal ID | Federally-recognized tribe | Must meet all requirements |
ID Inspection Checklist
When examining an ID, the notary should verify:
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Expiration Date | ID must be current (not expired) |
| Photo Match | Does the photo match the person presenting it? |
| Physical Characteristics | Age, height, eye color match? |
| Signs of Alteration | Any tampering or modifications? |
| Security Features | Holograms, watermarks, microprinting? |
| Name Match | Does name match the document being signed? |
IDs That Are NOT Acceptable
| ID Type | Reason Not Acceptable |
|---|---|
| Expired ID | Must be current |
| Student ID | Not government-issued |
| Employee ID | Not government-issued (usually) |
| Credit Cards | Not government-issued |
| Social Security Card | No photo |
| Birth Certificate | No photo |
| Foreign Driver's License | Not U.S. government-issued |
| Gym Membership Card | Not government-issued |
Special Situations
Foreign Nationals
- May use U.S.-issued documents (Green Card, visa, etc.)
- Foreign passports may be acceptable (country-specific)
- Must still meet current/photo/signature requirements
Name Discrepancies
If the name on the ID doesn't exactly match the document:
- Document may need to show name change history
- May need to decline notarization
- Never assume names match - verify carefully
Expired ID
- Never accept an expired ID as satisfactory evidence
- Suggest the principal obtain current identification
- Alternative: Use credible witness procedure
Key Points for the Exam
- Current: ID cannot be expired
- Government-issued: Federal, state, or recognized tribal only
- Photo required: Must have face photograph
- Plus: Signature OR physical description
- Check carefully: Watch for alterations and mismatches
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is an acceptable form of ID for satisfactory evidence in NC?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
A person's driver's license shows their name as "Robert Smith" but the document to be notarized says "Bob Smith." What should the notary do?
A
B
C
D