You have a document that needs to be notarized, you’ve scheduled your appointment, and then comes an important question:

What identification do I need to show the notary?

Having acceptable identification ready can help your notary appointment go smoothly and prevent unnecessary delays. Here’s what Indiana signers should know before meeting with a Notary Public.

Why Does a Notary Need to See Your ID?

One of a notary’s most important responsibilities is identifying the person who is signing the document.

Identification helps the notary establish that you are the person you claim to be and is an important part of helping deter fraud.

The exact identification requirements can depend on the circumstances and the type of notarization being performed, so it is always a good idea to discuss your identification with your notary before the appointment if you have any concerns.

What Types of Identification Can Be Used in Indiana?

For many notarizations, signers use a government-issued photo ID, such as:

• A driver's license
• A state-issued identification card
• A U.S. passport
• Certain other government-issued identification

The identification should provide the notary with sufficient information to establish your identity.

If you are unsure whether the identification you have will work, ask your notary before the appointment rather than waiting until the notary arrives.

What If My ID Is Expired?

An expired identification document does not necessarily mean that a general notarization cannot be completed in Indiana.

Indiana law provides notaries with methods for establishing a signer’s identity, and the circumstances surrounding the notarization matter.

However, there is an important distinction between general notary work and real estate or loan-signing appointments.

Title companies, lenders and other organizations may impose identification requirements that are stricter than the minimum requirements under Indiana notary law. For a mortgage closing or other real estate transaction, for example, you may be required to present a current, unexpired form of identification.

If your ID is expired and your document is connected with a real estate transaction, contact your title company, lender or signing professional before the appointment.

What If I Don't Have a Driver's License?

Not having a driver's license does not automatically prevent you from having a document notarized.

Depending on the circumstances, another acceptable form of identification or another method permitted under Indiana law may be available.

This situation sometimes comes up during mobile notary appointments at:

• Hospitals
• Assisted living communities
• Nursing and rehabilitation facilities
• Memory care communities
• Private residences

If the signer does not have a driver's license or other commonly used photo ID, let your notary know before scheduling or before the notary travels to the appointment.

That gives the notary an opportunity to discuss what identification is available and whether the notarization may be able to proceed.

Does the Name on My ID Have to Match the Document?

The name on your identification and the name appearing on your document are important considerations.

Small differences can sometimes occur—for example, a document might include a middle name while an ID uses only a middle initial.

More significant differences may require additional consideration.

A notary cannot simply overlook an identity concern because the signer says the document belongs to them.

If your name has changed because of marriage, divorce or another circumstance, or the name on your document differs significantly from your identification, mention this when arranging your appointment.

What Should I Bring to My Mobile Notary Appointment?

Before your appointment, have the following ready:

• Your document
• Your identification
• Any additional signers who are required
• Any required witnesses
• Any instructions you received from the organization that prepared or will receive the document

Unless you've been specifically instructed otherwise, don't sign a document requiring notarization before meeting with your notary. Some notarial acts require the signature to be made in the notary's presence.

Also, remember that a Notary Public cannot choose a legal document for you, prepare legal documents for you, or provide legal advice unless the notary is separately qualified and authorized to do so.

Not Sure Whether Your ID Will Work? Ask Before the Appointment.

Identification issues are much easier to address before a mobile notary arrives.

When you contact me to schedule an appointment, let me know if:

• Your ID is expired
• You don't have a driver's license
• The name on your ID differs from the document
• The signer is in a hospital, nursing facility or assisted living community
• You're unsure what identification is available

I'll be happy to discuss the notarization requirements and help determine whether I can proceed with the identification available.

Need a Mobile Notary in Central Indiana?

Dolph Notary Services provides professional mobile notary services throughout Indianapolis and surrounding Central Indiana communities.

I travel to homes, businesses, hospitals, assisted living communities, nursing facilities and other convenient locations.

Common appointments include powers of attorney, estate documents, affidavits, healthcare documents, real estate documents, vehicle documents and other documents requiring notarization.

Have Notary, Will Travel

Call/Text 317-527-1086

Schedule your mobile notary appointment.

Contact Dolph Notary Services to check availability or schedule your mobile notary appointment.

This article is provided for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Requirements may vary depending on the document, notarial act and requirements of the organization receiving the document.