Ohio Notary Practice Exam

What type of identification is NOT usually acceptable for notarization?

1. Foreign passport with a USCIS stamp

2. State-issued ID from another state

3. Photo ID with no name

4. US military ID card

The correct answer is: Photo ID with no name

The correct choice is that a photo ID with no name is not usually an acceptable form of identification for notarization. Notaries are required to verify the identity of the individual signing a document. A key component of this verification process is having a clear and legible name on the ID to confirm the individual’s identity accurately. A foreign passport with a USCIS stamp is commonly accepted because it provides clear identification and, in conjunction, the USCIS stamp indicates legal residence or work authorization. A state-issued ID from another state is also generally acceptable, provided it includes a clear photograph and name. Notaries can utilize such IDs even if they are issued from a different state because they still serve the same identifying purpose. A US military ID card is a valid form of identification as well, as it includes the service member's name and photograph, allowing for straightforward identity verification. In summary, for a notarization to be valid, the notary must be able to ascertain the signer's identity easily, which is not possible with a photo ID that lacks a name.