Which items count as satisfactory evidence for identification?

• A. Maryland-approved ID document
• B. Maryland-approved ID document or verification on oath with a credible witness
• C. A signed note from the signer
• D. A birth certificate

Answer: (B)

In Maryland, a notary must have satisfactory evidence of the signer’s identity. That evidence can come from a Maryland-approved ID document or from verification on oath with a credible witness. If the signer has a valid Maryland-approved identification document, the notary can rely on that alone. If not, the notary may rely on a credible witness who personally knows the signer and who, under oath, verifies the signer’s identity. A signed note from the signer isn’t identification, and a birth certificate doesn’t meet the satisfactory evidence standard for notarial identity in this context.