What type of identification is typically acceptable for notary verification?

When performing notary verification, a government-issued photo ID is typically the acceptable form of identification. This is because such IDs are specifically designed to verify an individual’s identity and include significant security features to reduce the risk of fraud.

Government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver's license or passport, provide reliable personal information, including the individual's name, photograph, address, and date of birth. Notaries rely on these identifiers to confirm the identity of the signer before notarizing any documents, ensuring that the person signing is indeed who they claim to be.

Other forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or social security card, do not contain a photograph and are not issued by a government authority in a way that confirms identity in an official capacity. An employee ID may provide some identification, but it often lacks sufficient security features and may not be universally recognized as a valid form of identification for notarization purposes. Therefore, using a government-issued photo ID aligns with best practices and legal standards for notarial acts.