🔹 General Notary Questions
What does a Notary Public do?
A Notary Public is an official authorized to witness the signing of documents, administer oaths, and deter fraud.
Do all parties need to be present for a notarization?
Yes, all signers must be present and provide proper identification.
What types of documents can a Notary Public notarize?
Common documents include affidavits, power of attorney, wills, deeds, loan documents, and contracts.
Can a Notary provide legal advice or draft documents?
No, unless they are also a licensed attorney.
What do I need to bring to a notary appointment?
A valid, government-issued photo ID and the unsigned document(s) to be notarized.
Can you notarize documents for someone who speaks a different language?
Yes, only if:
The notary and the signer can communicate directly without a translator
The signer understands the document they are signing
The document can be in any language, but the notarial certificate must be in English.
🔹 Identification and Requirements
Can I use an expired ID?
No. Texas notaries cannot accept expired identification, regardless of how recently it expired.
Can I use a photo of my ID or a digital copy?
No. The notary must view the original physical ID in person. Scans, copies, or phone images are not acceptable.
What if I don’t have valid ID?
f no acceptable ID is available, Texas law allows the use of one or two credible witnesses, who:
Personally know the signer
Are not named in the document
Have valid ID themselves
Ask your notary ahead of time if this option is available.
What type of ID is required for notarization in Texas?
You must present a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include:
Texas Driver’s License or State ID
U.S. Passport
U.S. Military ID
State-issued non-driver ID (from any U.S. state)you
What are the requirements for a signer to be notarized?
The signer must:
Appear in person before the notary (or virtually, if using RON)
Present valid ID
Be willing, aware, and capable of signing
Sign freely and knowingly, without coercion
Can you notarize for someone who doesn’t speak English?
Only if the notary and signer can communicate directly in the same language. Texas notaries cannot use interpreters during a notarization.
