What ID Do You Need for a Mobile Notary Appointment in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a busy city where notary services are often needed for real estate transactions, legal documents, business agreements, and more. Many people opt for a mobile notary because it saves time and brings convenience right to their doorstep. But one common issue that can cause delays? Not having the right identification.

Without proper ID, a Los Angeles mobile notary cannot legally verify your identity or complete the notarization. This can be frustrating, especially if you need the document notarized quickly. 

So, what forms of ID are accepted, and what should you do if you don’t have one? 

Here’s everything you need to know before your mobile notary appointment.

Types of IDs That Are Accepted

1. Government-issued photo IDs

The best form of identification for a notary appointment is a valid, government-issued photo ID. The most commonly accepted IDs include:

• State-issued driver’s license (from California or any other U.S. state)

• State-issued identification card

• U.S. passport or passport card

• Foreign passport (must be stamped by U.S. immigration)

• Military ID card

2. Permanent Resident or Green Card

If you are a permanent resident in the U.S., your Green Card is a valid form of identification for notary services. However, it must be current—expired Green Cards are not accepted.

3. Tribal or Government Employee IDs

• Tribal identification cards issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe

• Government employee IDs (state, federal, or city)

These IDs are valid as long as they include a photo, signature, and identifying information.

IDs That Are Not Accepted

Not all forms of identification meet California’s notary requirements. The following cannot be used:

• Social Security cards

• Credit or debit cards

• Temporary driver’s licenses (without a photo)

• Student IDs

• Work badges (unless issued by the government)

Even though these may be valid forms of ID in other situations, they do not meet the legal requirements for notarization.

What If You Don’t Have a Valid ID?

1. Use Credible Witnesses

If you don’t have an acceptable ID, California allows the use of two credible witnesses who can verify your identity. These witnesses must:

• Personally know you

• Present their own valid identification

• Take an oath confirming your identity

This option is useful if you lost your ID or have a name discrepancy on your documents.

2. Renew Your ID Before the Appointment

If your ID is expired, it’s best to renew it before scheduling your notary service. The California DMV offers expedited processing for ID renewals if needed.

3. Use an Alternative Notarization Method

Some documents allow for online notarization, where identity can be verified electronically. Check with your notary to see if this is an option for your specific document.

Other Important Considerations

Double-Check Your ID Name Matches Your Document

Your ID must match the name on the document being notarized. If you recently changed your name due to marriage or other reasons, bring additional supporting documents like a marriage certificate or court order.

Bring a Second Form of ID If Needed

While one primary ID is usually enough, some notaries or institutions may request a second form of identification for additional verification. Having a backup document like a passport or military ID can help prevent issues.

Know the Notary’s Requirements in Advance

Every Los Angeles mobile notary follows California’s legal ID requirements, but some may have additional policies. Before your appointment, confirm with the notary what forms of ID they accept to avoid last-minute delays.

Final Thoughts

Proper identification is crucial for any Los Angeles mobile notary appointment. Bringing a valid, government-issued photo ID ensures a smooth, hassle-free notarization process. If you don’t have the right ID, consider using credible witnesses or renewing your ID in advance. By preparing ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary delays and get your documents notarized without any issues.