What ID do I need for remote notarization?

Quick answer: for remote notarization you need a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID, most commonly a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. The ID has to be current and clearly legible, because the platform scans it and checks its security features as part of identity verification. Exact requirements can vary slightly by state and platform, but a standard government photo ID covers the vast majority of sessions.

People often assume any document with their name on it will do. Remote notarization is stricter than that, because the notary can’t inspect your ID in person, so the process relies on scanning and verifying a real government credential. Here’s exactly what to have ready.

IDs That Usually Work

Most RON platforms accept the following, as long as they’re current and undamaged:

• State-issued driver’s license (the most common)
• State-issued non-driver photo ID card
• U.S. or foreign passport
• In some cases, other government-issued photo IDs such as a military ID or permanent resident card, depending on the platform and state

Whatever you use, it needs to be unexpired, show a clear photo, and be readable when scanned. If the software can’t read it clearly, you may be asked to retake the photo in better lighting.

Your ID Is Only One Layer

Here’s what surprises many first-time signers: the ID itself isn’t the whole verification. Standard remote notarization stacks several checks. Your government ID goes through credential analysis (an automated inspection of its security features), and you’ll also complete knowledge-based authentication (KBA), a short set of personal-history questions drawn from public records. The notary then visually confirms your ID against your face on the live video call.

Knowing this in advance helps the session go smoothly. For the full breakdown, see how remote notaries verify your identity.

What Usually Won’t Work

• Expired IDs are generally not accepted, see whether a remote notary can accept an expired ID.
• Non-photo documents (Social Security cards, birth certificates) don’t work as your primary ID
• Photocopies or heavily worn/damaged IDs that can’t be scanned cleanly
• Documents that aren’t government-issued

What If Your ID Doesn’t Pass?

If credential analysis or KBA fails, the notary can’t simply skip the step, doing so would invalidate the notarization. Depending on your state, there may be an authorized alternative such as a credible witness, or the session is rescheduled. See what happens if you fail identity verification online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a driver’s license?

Yes. A current passport is widely accepted for remote notarization and is often a good option if your driver’s license is expired or hard to scan.

Does my ID have to match my state?

No. Your ID doesn’t have to be from the same state as the notary. Because the notary can be in a different state than you, what matters is that your government-issued ID is valid and verifiable.

Do I need a Social Security number?

You don’t present an SSN as your ID, but KBA pulls from records tied to your identity, which is one reason signers without a U.S. record history can have trouble passing verification.

Ready to Notarize Online?

Have a valid government photo ID ready and you’re most of the way there. Start with a trusted, compliant provider, compare options in our guide to the best online notary services, or go straight to notarize your documents online.