Acceptable Forms of ID for Notarization in Texas

# Acceptable Forms of ID for Notarization in Texas One of the most important aspects of the notarization process is proper identification. Texas has specific requirements for what constitutes acceptable identification for notarial acts. Understanding these requirements can help you avoid delays and complications. ## Primary Forms of Acceptable ID in Texas Texas notaries can accept the following forms of identification: ### Government-Issued Photo IDs - **Driver's license** issued by any U.S. state - **State ID card** issued by any U.S. state - **U.S. passport** or passport card - **Foreign passport** stamped by U.S. Immigration - **Military ID** with photo - **Permanent resident card** or alien registration receipt card (Form I-551) - **U.S. Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization** - **Texas License to Carry a Handgun or Concealed Handgun License** ## ID Requirements For an ID to be acceptable, it must: 1. **Be current and valid** (not expired) 2. **Be government-issued** 3. **Contain a photograph** of the bearer 4. **Contain a physical description** of the bearer 5. **Contain the bearer's signature** (that the notary can compare) 6. **Be issued with an identifying number** ## Common ID Problems and Solutions ### Expired ID **Problem**: Your ID is expired. **Solution**: Renew your ID before seeking notarization. Texas notaries cannot accept expired identification. ### Name Discrepancy **Problem**: Your name on the ID doesn't match the name on the document. **Solution**: You may need to sign the document with the name exactly as it appears on your ID, and then add "also known as" (AKA) with your other name. ### No Acceptable ID **Problem**: You don't have any of the acceptable forms of ID. **Solution**: In limited circumstances, Texas allows for "credible witnesses" who have acceptable ID and can vouch for your identity. Both you and the witnesses must appear before the notary. ## Special Circumstances ### Minors For minors who don't have government-issued photo ID, a parent or legal guardian with proper ID can establish the minor's identity. ### Elderly or Disabled Individuals For those in care facilities who may have expired IDs, additional documentation may be required, such as: - Facility-issued ID in conjunction with other identifying documents - Credible witness testimony - In some cases, a court order ## Preparing for Your Notary Appointment To ensure a smooth notarization process: 1. **Check your ID before scheduling** to ensure it's valid and meets requirements 2. **Bring a backup form of ID** if you have concerns about your primary ID 3. **Don't sign the document before meeting with the notary** 4. **Inform the notary in advance** if you have special circumstances ## Our Commitment to Proper Identification At Houston Mobile Notary Pros, we strictly adhere to Texas identification requirements to protect all parties from fraud while providing convenient mobile service. Our notaries are trained to properly verify identity while making the process as smooth as possible. Contact us today to schedule your mobile notary appointment, and feel free to ask any questions about identification requirements for your specific situation.