In the state of Florida, can I use an expired driver’s license for ID to identify the signer? If so, how do I enter it in my Notary journal? — H.P., Florida
In Florida, you may accept an ID that is listed in the statute if it is current or issued within the last 5 years (F.S. 117.05[5][b]2). You don’t say which state’s driver’s license was presented, so we’ll assume it was a Florida license. In Florida, a driver’s license must be renewed every 8 years for drivers 79 years and under and every 6 years for drivers over 80 years. Most licenses are issued in the year they are renewed. It is highly unlikely in this case that an expired license could be used to verify the identity of a signer if it was issued in the same year it was renewed. In case of an exception, you may cite the statute above in your journal and explain that the issuance date was less than 5 years from the date of notarization. The NNA discourages writing in actual dates from IDs in the journal due to privacy reasons unless state law requires.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.