Key Takeaways
- Identity verification is required for every notarization
- Personal knowledge OR satisfactory evidence (valid ID) is acceptable
- Government-issued photo IDs are the most reliable form of identification
- Expired IDs are generally not acceptable
- If you cannot verify identity, you must refuse the notarization
Last updated: January 2026
Satisfactory Evidence of Identity
Verifying the signer's identity is your most important duty as a notary. Never notarize for someone whose identity you cannot confirm.
Two Methods of Identification
Texas recognizes two methods:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal Knowledge | You personally know the signer |
| Satisfactory Evidence | Documentary proof (valid ID) |
Personal Knowledge
Personal knowledge means you have an established relationship with the signer:
| Acceptable | NOT Acceptable |
|---|---|
| Family member | Someone you just met |
| Long-time friend | Brief acquaintance |
| Coworker for years | Someone introduced today |
| Long-time neighbor | "They look familiar" |
Caution: Personal knowledge claims can be challenged. Be certain you truly know the person.
Satisfactory Evidence: Acceptable IDs
| Primary IDs (Most Reliable) |
|---|
| Texas driver's license |
| Texas ID card |
| U.S. passport or passport card |
| U.S. military ID |
| Other state driver's license or ID |
| Secondary IDs (If primary unavailable) |
|---|
| Foreign passport with U.S. visa |
| Permanent resident card (green card) |
| Tribal enrollment card with photo |
| Employee ID (with other verification) |
ID Requirements
For an ID to be acceptable:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Current | Not expired |
| Photo | Clear photograph |
| Physical description | Identifiers match |
| Signature | For comparison |
| Government-issued | Official ID |
Examining IDs
Check for:
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Photo | Does it match the person? |
| Name | Matches document name? |
| Physical features | Height, weight, eye color |
| Signature | Consistent style? |
| Expiration | Is it current? |
| Security features | Holograms, microprinting |
| Tampering | Alterations or damage |
Red Flags - When to Refuse
| Red Flag | Action |
|---|---|
| ID expired | Refuse |
| Photo doesn't match | Refuse |
| Signs of tampering | Refuse |
| Signer nervous/evasive | Ask more questions |
| Pressure to hurry | Slow down |
| Story doesn't add up | Refuse if concerned |
Recording ID Information
In your journal, record:
| Information | Example |
|---|---|
| ID type | "Texas Driver's License" |
| ID number | "#12345678" |
| Expiration date | "05/15/2028" |
| Issuing authority | "Texas DPS" |
On the Exam
Identity questions focus on:
- Two methods: Personal knowledge and satisfactory evidence
- Acceptable IDs: Government-issued, photo, current
- Expired IDs: NOT acceptable
- When to refuse: Cannot verify identity
Test Your Knowledge
What are the TWO methods for verifying a signer's identity in Texas?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Can a Texas notary accept an expired driver's license as identification?
A
B
C
D