--- title: "What Is Satisfactory Evidence of Identity? Meaning & Example" description: "Proof, usually a government photo ID, that a notary relies on to confirm who the signer is. A worked example and how it differs from a credible witness." url: "https://mcc-solutionsnj.com/notary/glossary/satisfactory-evidence-of-identity" --- Notary glossary # What is satisfactory evidence of identity? Proof, usually a government photo ID, that a notary relies on to confirm who the signer is. By [Matthew Coleman](/about), MCC Solutions ✓ New Jersey commissioned notary, no. 50244803, insured for errors and omissions. [See the credentials](/about/credentials) ## In plain English Each state sets what counts. Typically an unexpired government-issued photo ID with a signature is accepted. Other methods, such as a credible witness, may be allowed in some states. Need this notarized? [Get it notarized online by a New Jersey notary over video](/notary/remote-online-notarization), or [book a notary visit in New Jersey](/notary/#order). The name on the ID should match the document. ## Why it matters Without acceptable proof of identity, a notary must refuse. That one gap can postpone a closing, a power of attorney for a hospital patient, or an immigration filing. Small details count: an ID that expired last week, or a middle name that appears on the deed but not the license, can create delays at the table. ## Worked example A signer shows an unexpired driver license; the notary checks the photo, name and expiration and records it. ## What to do - Check the expiration date on your ID before the appointment. - Compare the name on the ID with the name on the document. - Ask the notary in advance what forms of ID they can accept in their state. - If your ID was recently renewed, bring the new card, not a paper receipt alone. - Ask the requesting office how to handle a name difference before the signing. ## Common mistakes - Relying on a photo of an ID on a phone usually fails because the notary needs the physical credential. - Assuming a work badge counts can lead to a refusal since most states require a government issued ID. - Ignoring a maiden name versus married name difference can stop the notarization or require an extra document from the requester. ## Not the same as: Credible witness Satisfactory evidence usually means a qualifying ID document, while a credible witness is a person who vouches for the signer when that ID is not available, where state law allows. [See Credible witness](/notary/glossary/credible-witness). ## Go deeper - [What ID do you need to get something notarized?](/notary/guides/what-id-do-you-need-for-a-notary): What identification a notary asks for, which IDs are usually accepted, what to do if your ID is expired or you do not have one, and how names should match. - [Name Mismatch Between ID and Documents: What Happens](/notary/guides/name-mismatch-between-id-and-loan-documents): Why a notary may pause when your ID name differs from your loan or deed, how AKA statements work, and steps to fix a mismatch before a signing appointment. ## Try it [Use the related free tool](/notary/notary-journal-template). ## Related terms - [Scanback](/notary/glossary/scanback): The scanned copy of signed loan documents a signing agent sends back, in addition to the physical return. - [Self-proving affidavit](/notary/glossary/self-proving-affidavit): A sworn statement attached to a will that can simplify proving the will later. - [Right of rescission](/notary/glossary/right-of-rescission): A short period after signing certain refinance or home equity loans when the borrower may cancel. ## Common questions **What is satisfactory evidence of identity?** Proof, usually a government photo ID, that a notary relies on to confirm who the signer is. **Can you give an example of satisfactory evidence of identity?** A signer shows an unexpired driver license; the notary checks the photo, name and expiration and records it. **Is a passport accepted as ID by a notary?** An unexpired passport is commonly accepted, but each state sets its own list. Confirm with the notary before the appointment. **What if my ID has my old address?** An old address alone is usually not a problem if the ID is unexpired and the name and photo match. The notary's state rules control. General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office. Need help? [### Mobile notary Mobile signings in New Jersey, remote online notarization and apostille help. Notary services →](/notary/) [Full glossary](/notary/glossary) Do it yourself ### Notary Launch Bundle You have the commission. These three get you to paid work: loan signings, local marketing and remote notarization. [See what's inside ($49)](/toolkits/notary-launch-bundle)14-day full refund ## Need a document notarized? Book a notary. [Book a notary](/notary/#order)[Call (908) 444-6373](tel:+19084446373)