What ID Do I Need for Online Notarization?

Identification that generally works

• State-issued driver's license or identification card
• U.S. passport or passport card
• Permanent resident card
• Military identification
• Foreign passport, depending on the verification method available

How credential analysis works

You photograph the front and back of your ID. Software examines security features, fonts, layout, and machine-readable data to assess authenticity. Most failures here are photo quality problems: glare, cropping, motion blur, or a case still on the card.

How identity proofing works

You answer multiple-choice questions generated from public records — past addresses, lenders, vehicles. There is a time limit and a limited number of attempts, so answer promptly and do not overthink. If none of the options look right, choose the none-of-the-above style answer rather than guessing.

If verification does not succeed

It is not a judgment about you. Thin credit files, recent moves, name changes, and young signers all commonly fail knowledge-based questions. Tell us what happened and we will explain the alternatives, which may include an in-person notarization.

Name mismatches

If the name on your ID differs from the name on the document — marriage, divorce, a suffix, a middle initial — raise it during intake. This is routine to handle in advance and disruptive to discover mid-session.