In California, a military ID is an accepted form of photo ID, but requirements to accept it also indicate that it must list a physical description of the holder. I have never seen a military ID with a physical description. Why is military ID listed as an accepted type of ID if they never include a physical description? — J.S., California
Certain uniformed services ID cards in the past have met the minimum requirements of Civil Code 1185, but the newer cards, as you point out, do not. The law on the books today was enacted in 1982 and it was significant in being the first law that authorized a Notary to accept an identification card from a signer for a notarial act. Before then, a Notary had to personally know the signer or know a credible witness who did. Civil Code 1185 is in need of revision on the point of military IDs.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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