By Alam Lule, Texas Notary Public · Last updated
A Texas notary can identify a signer with a current identification card or document issued by the federal government or any state government that contains the person's photograph, physical description and signature — for example, a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport or military ID.
If the signer has no acceptable ID, Texas law also allows identification by personal knowledge or through a credible witness who personally knows the signer and is themselves properly identified.
Commonly accepted IDs
The following are usually acceptable, as long as they are current (not expired):
- Texas driver's license or Texas ID card
- Driver's license or ID card from another U.S. state
- U.S. passport book or passport card
- U.S. military ID
- U.S. permanent resident card
- Foreign passport (the notary must be able to verify it)
What is usually not accepted
Documents that lack a photo, a signature or a physical description generally do not meet the standard. Examples include Social Security cards, birth certificates, credit cards, employee badges, school IDs without the required elements and hospital wristbands. Expired IDs should not be relied on.
Credible witnesses
When a signer has no ID, the notary may rely on a credible witness who personally knows the signer, has a valid ID and swears to the signer's identity. The rules are strict, so contact the notary before the appointment to confirm whether this option will work for your situation.
Online notarizations
For online notarization, Texas rules add electronic identity proofing: the ID is scanned and analyzed, and the signer answers knowledge-based questions before the video session.
Sources: Texas Secretary of State notary public guidance; Texas Government Code Chapter 406.
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I am not a licensed attorney in Texas and cannot give legal advice. / No soy abogado licenciado en Texas y no puedo dar asesoría legal.