What should a notary do if approached by someone with an expired ID?

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Verifying identity requires a current, acceptable form of identification. An expired ID doesn’t meet this requirement because it can’t reliably prove who the signer is. Therefore, you should not proceed with the notarization until the signer presents a valid form of ID. If another valid ID is offered and satisfies the notary’s identification standards, you may continue after confirming it. If no valid ID is available, you must decline the notarization. In New Jersey, acceptable IDs are government-issued, current IDs that include the signer’s photo and name (such as a current driver’s license, state ID, or passport). The goal is to prevent fraud and preserve the integrity of the notarial act. If applicable, you can also rely on other permitted identity methods (like personal knowledge or credible witnesses) only when allowed by law and with proper procedures.