North Carolina Notary Practice Exam

An acceptable form of ID for notarization must demonstrate that the signer is who they claim to be and must typically include a photo, signature, and other identifying information. A state-issued ID with a star is recognized as a secure form of identification because it signifies that the ID meets federal standards for identification, which is especially important when verifying identity in the notarization process. This form of ID is widely accepted and is existing proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States, making it suitable for notaries to validate the identity of the individual appearing before them.

Temporary IDs, while they may provide some level of identification, often do not meet the same rigorous standards as permanent state IDs, leading to doubts regarding their validity. A Social Security card lacks both a photo and a signature and does not serve as a standalone form of identification for notarization. Student IDs, while they might show a photo and signature, are generally not considered reliable enough for formal identification in the context of notarization due to their issuance policies and potential for ease of forgery. Therefore, the state ID with a star stands out as the most reliable and appropriate choice.