What is needed for an ID to be acceptable?

• A. Only name and date of birth
• B. A witness's testimony
• C. Photograph, signature, and be satisfactory to the notary
• D. An ID that is more than 10 years old

Answer: (C)

Identity to be acceptable at a Maryland notary must prove the signer’s identity. The ID must bear the signer’s photograph and signature, and the notary must be satisfied that it reasonably proves who the signer is. A document that only lists a name and date of birth lacks a photo and cannot reliably identify the person. While a credible identifying witness can play a role in special circumstances, a witness’s testimony by itself does not satisfy the standard ID requirement. An ID that is expired or no longer valid is not acceptable.