Do you need a document notarized, but don’t have ID considered acceptable identification in Florida? You can still get your document notarized. I’ll share with you how! First, let’s look at what the acceptable forms of identification are.
Sections
Alternative Methods of Identification
Who can be a credible witness?
What is a sworn witness statement?
Acceptable forms of ID
- Florida identification card or driver’s license.
- Passport issued by the Department of State of the U.S.
- A United States Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration stamped passport when a foreign government issues it.
These are just a view. You can view the full list here.
What are 2 alternative methods of identification?
The two alternative methods that a notary can use to identify a signer are:
- The sworn written statement of one credible witness
known to the notary public. - The sworn written statements of two credible witnesses
who proves their identities to the notary by presenting satisfactory
evidence and:
- That the signer and the person whose name appears in the document are one in the same.
- That the signer and the witnesses personally know each other.
- That the witnesses reasonably believe that the signer’s circumstances make it difficult or impossible for them to obtain another acceptable form of identification.
- That it is the reasonable belief of the
witnesses that the signer does not possess any of the identification documents specified in Section 117.05(5)(b) (2.),
Florida Statutes. - That the witnesses do not have a financial
interest in nor are parties to the underlying transaction.
Who can be a credible witness?
Individuals who have no financial interest in the transaction, nor are they party to the underlying transaction. The credible witnesses must provide the notary public with satisfactory evidence of their identities as well.
What is a sworn witness statement?
The sworn witness statement appears in a credible witness affidavit (this is what I carry with me), or handwritten. Under penalty of perjury the witnesses declare that (1) the signer who physically appears before the notary public is the person named in the document, and (2) the signer is personally known to the witnesses. It also states that the witnesses do not believe that the signer has in his/her possession the required identification (as defined in F.S. 117.05(5) (b) 2), and that they (the witnesses) believe it would be difficult or impossible for the signer to obtain said identification. Finally, the affidavit or written document states that the witnesses do not have a financial interest in, nor are they part to the underlying transaction.
The statement requires the witnesses to sign, print, date, and provide their addresses on the affidavit. The notary notarizes the affidavit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you do have valid forms of identification, you should present them to the notary for verification. Current, acceptable forms of ID are the preference.
The two alternatives listed above are for circumstances of last resort, such as an elderly person who may be home-bound and does not have a current ID card, a person who experiences identity fraud, or has lost their ID.
I have experience with these types of notarizations so if you’re having this issue don’t hesitate to call!
*I am not an attorney therefore the information in my posts is not legal advice.
