A customer recently asked me if her mother can have documents notarized if she no longer has a current, valid ID. Also, can the notarization be done remotely? — C.S., New York
If the mother does not have a valid form of identification to present to the Notary, a credible witness or witnesses may possibly be used. If a single witness is used, that witness must be personally known to the mother and the Notary. If two witnesses are used, they must provide identification to the Notary that meets the requirements of the new regulations.
The answer to your second question is that the notarization must be done in the Notary’s physical presence; credible witnesses may not be used to identify a remote signer for a remote notarization.
Readers who have a question about remote notarization requirements for other states can find information in our Knowledge Center page “How to Become a Remote Online Notary” by clicking on the drop-down menu under “State RON Instructions” and selecting the appropriate state.
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
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline consultants to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.