What Identification Do You Need for a Notary in Wisconsin?

Start with the identification you plan to bring

Before scheduling a mobile notary appointment, take a minute to find the ID you'll use. Wisconsin notarial acts generally require the notary to establish the identity of the person appearing for the notarization. This isn't just a formality: confirming that the person signing is the person they claim to be is part of the notary's responsibility.

An unexpired driver's license, passport or government identification card is usually the simplest place to start. Wisconsin law also recognizes some government-issued credentials that expired within the previous three years. The details of the credential and whether it provides satisfactory evidence still matter, so ask before assuming an expired or unusual document will be accepted.

Common identification choices

Wisconsin's Department of Financial Institutions explains that identification may be established through personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence. For an in-person appointment, commonly accepted evidence includes:

• A passport, driver's license or government-issued identification card that is current or expired no more than three years before the notarial act.
• Another qualifying government-issued form of identification that meets the state's requirements and is satisfactory to the notary.
• In certain circumstances, verification under oath or affirmation from a credible witness who personally appears and meets the applicable identification requirements.

A work badge, credit card or a photograph of an ID on your phone should not be assumed sufficient. If your identification situation is unusual, contact Gariann before the appointment rather than waiting until she arrives.

What if you've misplaced your driver's license?

Explain your situation when you request the visit. A passport or another qualifying government credential may be an option. A credible-witness approach may apply in some circumstances, but it is not a guaranteed substitute; the notary must follow Wisconsin's rules.

The law also allows a notarial officer to ask for additional information or credentials when needed to be reasonably assured of a person's identity. Showing up with a document is not itself proof of identity.

A short preparation checklist

• Bring the physical identification you intend to use.
• Check the name on the ID against the name on your paperwork; tell us about differences before the visit.
• Have all signers available to appear as required for their own signatures.
• Bring the complete document, including attachments and any notarial certificate.
• Ask about witnesses in advance if your document or its recipient requires them.

Local mobile appointments

Integrity Mobile Notary serves Green Bay and Northeast Wisconsin by appointment. Once you have confirmed your identification and signing requirements, you can enter your meeting address, select a time and review an itemized travel and notarial fee estimate.

Remember: Your document's recipient or attorney decides which documents and legal forms are appropriate. A notary cannot give legal advice or promise that an ID or signing arrangement meets every receiving organization's rules.