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The most common reason a notarization gets delayed has nothing to do with the document. It's the ID. Here's what Maine law says about proving who you are, so you can show up ready.
What Maine Law Allows
Under Maine's notary law (4 MRSA §1907), a notarial officer can identify you in one of these ways:
1. Personal Knowledge
If the notary knows you through dealings sufficient to give reasonable certainty of your identity, no ID document is needed. For most clients meeting us for the first time, this won't apply.
2. Identification Documents
- A passport
- A driver's license
- A government-issued nondriver ID card
- Another government-issued ID that has your signature or photo and is satisfactory to the notary
3. A Credible Witness
If you don't have acceptable ID, a credible witness can vouch for you under oath or affirmation. The witness must appear in person and must either be known to the notary or present their own passport, driver's license, or government nondriver ID.
The Notary May Ask for More
The statute also allows a notary to require additional information or credentials to be sure of your identity. If something doesn't look right, such as a worn card, a name mismatch, or a photo that's hard to compare, we may ask for a second ID.
Common ID Hiccups
- Name doesn't match the document. If your document says "Katherine A. Doe" and your ID says "Kate Doe," bring something that bridges the gap, or ask the document's preparer whether it can be corrected.
- Expired ID. Maine's statute doesn't spell out an expiration rule, but an expired card may not satisfy every notary or every receiving agency. Bring a current ID when you can.
- Out-of-state or foreign IDs. Passports from any country are listed. Other government IDs are judged case by case.
- Lost wallet while traveling. Ask about the credible witness option before your appointment.
Special Situations
Hospitals, Nursing Homes, and Jails
IDs are often stored away or held with the facility. Call ahead so we can plan, whether that means retrieving the ID or arranging a credible witness. See our post on facility visits.
Fingerprinting
Fingerprinting has its own ID rules, set by the agency requesting your prints. Check your application instructions, or see our fingerprinting services page.
Quick Checklist
- Bring a current, government-issued photo ID
- Make sure the name matches your document
- Have a backup ID if you have one
- Tell us ahead of time if you're unsure
Questions about your ID? Call or text before your appointment, and we'll sort it out together.
Keep Reading
- What Is a Notarial Officer in Maine?
- Hospital, Nursing Home, and Jail Notary Visits in Maine
- Affidavits, Jurats, and Acknowledgments: What's the Difference?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a driver's license enough for a notarization?
A driver's license is one of the IDs listed in Maine's statute. The notary can still ask for more if needed.
Can I use an expired ID?
Maine's statute doesn't set an expiration rule, but a notary may require additional ID. Bring a current ID whenever possible.
What is a credible witness?
Someone who appears in person, is known to the notary or shows qualifying ID, and swears or affirms to your identity.
Can I use a foreign passport?
Yes. A passport is listed as acceptable evidence of identity under Maine law.
Book Your Appointment
Call or text 207-808-0550 to schedule with Notary Java. We are based at 50 Market Street, #400, South Portland, ME 04106, and we come to you across Greater Portland, York and Cumberland counties, and beyond. If you need documents printed, use the Upload Document Now (Send Documents) button in our contact section, or email files to SigningService@NotaryJava.com. That inbox is for sending documents only, so please call or text to book.