Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What type of identification is typically required for notarization in Illinois?

1. State-issued ID

2. Any form of identification

3. Only military IDs

4. A work ID

The correct answer is: State-issued ID

In Illinois, the law requires that individuals providing documents for notarization must present valid identification that confirms their identity. A state-issued ID, such as a driver's license or a state ID card, is typically acceptable because it contains a photo and identifying information, such as the person's name and address, which helps the notary verify the individual's identity effectively. Acceptable identification must be issued by a government agency and be current, which is why a state-issued ID is preferred. This requirement enhances the security and integrity of the notarization process, ensuring that the notary can confidently verify that the individual appearing before them is indeed the person they claim to be. Other forms of identification mentioned, such as military IDs, work IDs or any form of identification, may not always meet the standards set forth by Illinois law. Military IDs, for example, could be acceptable in some situations but are not universally recognized as valid for every notarization. Likewise, work IDs often lack critical identifiers that confirm the identity, such as a photograph or secure verification methods. Hence, a state-issued ID is the most reliable choice for ensuring compliance with Illinois notarization requirements.