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ID requirements · New York & New Jersey

Acceptable Forms of ID for Notarization

What to bring to your New York or New Jersey notary appointment — and what to have ready for an online notarization — so your signing goes smoothly the first time.

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  • Current, government-issued photo ID
  • In-person & online requirements
  • NY & NJ notaries
In-person notarization

IDs we accept in New York & New Jersey

ID acceptance for in-person notarization varies by state. For appointments with our New York and New Jersey notaries, the following identification is accepted:

U.S. driver’s license or state ID

A current, state-issued driver’s license or identification card.

U.S. or foreign passport

A current passport from the United States or any other country.

Canadian or Mexican driver’s license

A current driver’s license issued by Canada or Mexico.

U.S. military ID

A current identification card issued by the U.S. armed forces.

Veteran Health ID Card

The Veteran Health Identification Card issued by the VA.

USCIS-issued ID card

An ID card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

The rules

What makes an ID acceptable?

A notary must verify the signer’s identity using current, government-issued photo identification. The ID must include:

  • A photograph of the signer
  • The signer’s signature
  • Identifying information such as date of birth or a physical description
  • A current, unexpired date

Tip: the name on your ID should match the name on your document. If it doesn’t, contact us before your appointment.

On the day

Before your notary arrives

  • Have your valid, unexpired ID ready.
  • The signer must understand the document and sign voluntarily, writing their own name without help.
  • The signer must not be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, tranquilizers, or painkillers.
  • If witnesses are required, have them present. Witnesses must be at least 18, of sound mind, and have no stake in the document.
  • Most healthcare staff can’t serve as witnesses, and the notary can’t be a witness.

Do not sign your document before the notary arrives. You must sign in front of the notary public.

Online notarization

ID requirements for online notarization

For remote online notarization, your ID is checked by the platform before the notary joins. It scans the ID (credential analysis) and confirms you are its owner through identity proofing.

  • A U.S. driver’s license, state ID, or passport works best
  • International clients: a passport is recommended
  • Have good lighting so the ID scan reads clearly
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Online vs. in person

In person: the notary inspects your physical ID.
Online: the platform scans your ID and verifies your identity before the video session.

FAQs

Notary ID FAQs

What ID do I need to get something notarized in New York or New Jersey?
A current, government-issued photo ID such as a U.S. driver’s license or state ID, a U.S. or foreign passport, a Canadian or Mexican driver’s license, a U.S. military ID, a Veteran Health ID Card, or a USCIS-issued ID card.
Can I use an expired ID?
No. The ID must be current. If your ID has expired, contact us before booking so we can discuss your options.
Can I use a foreign passport?
Yes. Current foreign passports are accepted for in-person notarization with our New York and New Jersey notaries, and a passport is recommended for online notarization.
What does an acceptable ID need to show?
A photograph, the signer’s signature, and identifying information such as date of birth or a physical description.
Is the ID requirement different for online notarization?
Yes. For online notarization, the platform scans your ID and verifies your identity before the notary joins the video session.
Should I sign my document before the appointment?
No. You must sign in front of the notary, so leave the document unsigned until your appointment.
Our services

Ready to get your document notarized?

Mobile Notary NYC

A notary comes to you in all five boroughs.

Remote Online Notary

Notarize by secure video from anywhere.

Hospital Notary

Bedside notarization at hospitals and nursing homes.

Apostille

Authenticate documents for use abroad.

Sources

New York Notary Public License Law — NY Department of State
New Jersey Notary Public Manual — NJ Department of the Treasury
National Notary Association — Acceptable ID for Notarization

Notaries are not attorneys and cannot give legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm with your notary before your appointment.

Have your ID? Let’s get it notarized.

Book online, call, or notarize by video.

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