Key Takeaways
- Notaries must verify the identity of every signer
- Government-issued photo ID is the primary method of identification
- ID must be current (not expired) and contain a photograph and signature
- Personal knowledge of the signer is also acceptable
- Credible witnesses may be used when no ID is available
Acceptable Identification
Verifying the identity of the signer is one of the notary's most important duties. New Jersey law specifies what forms of identification are acceptable.
Methods of Identification
New Jersey recognizes three methods for verifying a signer's identity:
| Method | Description | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory Evidence | Government-issued photo ID | Most common method |
| Personal Knowledge | Notary personally knows signer | Long-term acquaintance |
| Credible Witness | Trusted third party vouches for identity | No ID available |
Satisfactory Evidence (ID Documents)
The primary method of identification is presenting a valid government-issued identification document.
Requirements for Acceptable ID
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Government-Issued | Federal, state, or foreign government |
| Photo | Must contain photograph of bearer |
| Signature | Must contain signature of bearer |
| Current | Must not be expired |
| Physical Description | Helpful but not required |
Commonly Accepted IDs
| ID Type | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| State Driver's License | Yes |
| State ID Card | Yes |
| U.S. Passport | Yes |
| U.S. Passport Card | Yes |
| Military ID | Yes |
| Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) | Yes |
| Foreign Passport | Yes (if current) |
IDs That Are Generally NOT Acceptable
| ID Type | Why Not Acceptable |
|---|---|
| Student ID | Not government-issued |
| Employee Badge | Not government-issued |
| Credit Card | No photo |
| Social Security Card | No photo |
| Birth Certificate | No photo |
| Expired Driver's License | Not current |
Personal Knowledge
A notary may identify a signer based on personal knowledge if:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Prior Acquaintance | Know the person over time |
| Certainty | No doubt about identity |
| Documentation | Note in journal that ID was by personal knowledge |
Important: Personal knowledge means you personally know the signer—not that someone told you who they are. Casual or brief encounters are not sufficient.
When Personal Knowledge Is Appropriate
- Long-time friend or family member
- Regular business associate
- Neighbor you've known for years
When Personal Knowledge Is NOT Appropriate
- Someone you just met
- Someone introduced to you by another
- Someone you recognize but don't really know
Credible Witness Identification
When a signer has no acceptable ID and the notary doesn't personally know them, a credible witness may vouch for the signer's identity.
Credible Witness Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Personally Knows Signer | Must know signer's identity |
| Known to Notary | Notary must know witness OR witness presents ID |
| No Interest | Cannot benefit from transaction |
| Takes Oath | Must swear to signer's identity |
Credible Witness Process
- Witness personally appears before notary
- Notary verifies witness's identity (ID or personal knowledge)
- Witness takes oath that they know the signer
- Witness vouches for signer's identity
- Notary documents the procedure in journal
On the Exam
Expect 3-4 questions on identification:
- Primary method: Government-issued photo ID
- ID requirements: Current, photo, signature
- Personal knowledge: Must personally know—not just recognize
- Credible witness: Must take oath, no interest in transaction
Which of the following is NOT an acceptable form of identification for notarization?
Can a notary use an expired driver's license to verify identity?
What is required for a credible witness to vouch for a signer's identity?