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Notary Basics

Valid ID Requirements for Notarization in Utah (What Counts + What Doesn't)

January 12, 2026
7 min read
American Notary Services

Nothing derails a notary appointment faster than an ID problem. You can have the right document, the right signer, and the right time… and still end up rescheduling if the ID doesn't meet Utah's requirements.

As a mobile notary serving Utah County and Salt Lake County, I see the same issues over and over—expired IDs, the wrong kind of card, or a last-minute scramble because someone left their wallet at home.

Here's the simple, Utah-specific guide to help you show up prepared.

1 The "Big Rule": Your ID Must Be Valid, Government-Issued, and Identifying

Utah requires "satisfactory evidence of identity." In plain English, that means your ID must be valid (not expired) and should clearly prove who you are.

The easiest way to stay safe:

Use a current, government-issued photo ID that includes:

  • Your photo
  • Your signature
  • A physical description (like height, weight, etc.)

Important: If your ID is expired—even if it expired yesterday—plan on rescheduling or using an approved alternative (more on that below).

2 IDs That Are Generally Acceptable in Utah

Utah allows valid personal identification issued by the U.S., any U.S. state, or a foreign government, as long as it includes the key identifying features (photo, signature, physical description). A valid passport also qualifies.

Common examples that usually work:

State-issued driver's license
State-issued ID card
U.S. passport (book/card)
Valid passport issued by any nation

Not sure about a specific ID? Text or call us before your appointment—we'd rather confirm ahead of time than waste your trip fee. (801) 462-0388

3 IDs That Do Not Work (This One Surprises People)

Driving Privilege Card (DPC)

Utah specifically excludes a driving privilege card from "satisfactory evidence of identity" for notarization.

That means if someone shows up with a DPC instead of a standard driver license or other acceptable ID, the notarization can't proceed.

Why this matters: Driving privilege cards don't meet Utah's identification standards for legal notarization, even though they're valid for driving purposes.

Other IDs that typically don't work:

  • Expired IDs (even recently expired)
  • Temporary paper IDs without photo/signature
  • Non-government issued IDs (work badges, school IDs, etc.)
  • Photos of IDs on your phone

4 What If You Don't Have Acceptable ID? (Credible Witness Option)

In some situations, Utah allows identity verification using a credible witness—a person who:

  • Is personally known to the notary, and
  • Personally knows the signer, and
  • Can take an oath or affirmation about the signer's identity

Important: This isn't a "bring your friend" workaround. The credible witness must meet strict standards, and it must be appropriate for your situation. If you think you may need this option, contact us before your appointment so we can talk through it.

5 Special Note for Remote Online Notarization (RON)

If you're notarizing online (RON), Utah still requires identity verification—just with extra steps.

In addition to appearing via audio/video, the signer typically must:

  • Provide an image of a qualifying ID/passport, and
  • Complete identity proofing through approved methods (like knowledge-based questions or biometric analysis), depending on the platform and requirements

Considering RON?

If you want to know whether your document (and your ID) will work online, reach out and we'll point you in the right direction.

Common ID Mistakes That Cause Reschedules

Expired ID

Even recently expired IDs usually can't be accepted.

Mismatched Name

If your document is in a different name (recent marriage/divorce/name change), tell us ahead of time so we can flag potential issues.

Wrong Card Type

Most often: driving privilege cards, temporary documents, or non-government IDs.

Forgot Their Wallet

It happens. A quick "everyone has their ID?" check before we arrive saves a lot of stress.

Quick Checklist

Bring This to Your Appointment

Before your notary arrives, make sure you have:

Your unsigned document

All signers present

A valid, acceptable ID for each signer

Any required witnesses

(If your document needs them)

A good signing space

(Table + lighting)

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Ready to Schedule a Mobile Notary in Utah?

If you're in Utah County or Salt Lake County, we'll come to you—home, office, hospital, or wherever you need the signing done.

Want to understand costs first?

Check out our pricing guide: "Mobile Notary Cost in Utah | Fees + Mileage Explained"

Last Updated

January 12, 2026

Category

Notary Basics

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