By Lequita Eason, Georgia Notary Public · NNA & LSS CertifiedFew things are more frustrating than arriving at a notary appointment and learning your document can’t be notarized today. In almost every case, the problem is identification. Here is what to bring to a notary appointment in Georgia, whether you visit my Douglasville office or I come to you.
Why a notary checks your ID
A notary’s main job is to confirm that the person signing a document is who they say they are, and that they are signing willingly. Checking a valid ID is how I do that, and it protects you from fraud. If an ID is missing, expired or doesn’t match the name on the document, I can’t complete the notarization.
IDs that are commonly accepted
Bring a current, unexpired, government-issued photo ID with your signature. Examples include:
- A driver’s license from any U.S. state
- A state-issued identification card
- A U.S. passport or passport card
- A foreign passport
- A U.S. military ID
Make sure the photo still looks like you and that the ID hasn’t expired. A temporary paper license without a photo usually won’t work by itself, so bring your old card or another photo ID along with it.
Your name should match the document
The name on your ID should match the name on the document you’re signing. Small differences are often fine. For example, the ID says “Mary Ann Smith” and the document says “Mary Smith.” If your name changed through marriage or divorce, or the document uses a completely different name, call me before your appointment so we can sort it out first.
Every signer needs their own ID
If a document has more than one signer, such as a vehicle title, a bill of sale or a power of attorney, every person whose signature is being notarized must be present and bring their own ID. A spouse or relative can’t sign or appear on someone else’s behalf.
Don’t sign ahead of time
Most documents must be signed in front of the notary. Bring your document unsigned unless the agency that gave it to you specifically says otherwise. If you’ve already signed it, we may need a fresh copy.
What if I don’t have a current ID?
Call me before you book. Depending on your situation there may be another option, but it has to be arranged in advance. Showing up without ID usually means rescheduling.
A quick checklist before your appointment
- A current government-issued photo ID for every signer
- The complete document, every page, unsigned
- Any instructions from the agency, bank, court or attorney that requested it
- Witnesses, if your document requires them (let me know ahead of time)
One more thing: I can’t give legal advice
A notary can’t choose which form you need, fill it out for you or explain what it means legally. If you aren’t sure which document to use, ask the agency that requested it or an attorney first. Once you have the right document, I’ll make sure it’s signed and notarized correctly.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Requirements can vary by document and agency, so confirm details with the organization that requested your document.