I’m wondering what the guidelines are in Texas regarding a paper driver’s license? Are they acceptable? Do they have to have another form of identification with it? I feel like I had one that was a fake, so I declined it but I’m not sure, so I’d like to know the law or the standard. — K.K., Texas
The Texas Administrative Code states that Notaries may use a “credential” to identify a document signer. A credential is “a valid, unexpired identification card or other document issued by the federal government or any state government, as defined by §311.05 of the Government Code, that contains the photograph and signature of the principal. With respect to a deed or other instrument relating to a residential real estate transaction, a credential also includes a current passport issued by a foreign country (1 TAC 87.1[1]). Note specifically the words “card” and “document” in the definition. The rule is talking about “tangible” credentials. Most, if not all, are thick plastic with laser etching, or perhaps a paper ID enclosed in plastic. If the ID you were presented with truly was as thin as a piece of paper, it likely was a copy of an ID and you rightfully declined to accept it.
For more information, please see our guide to spotting a fake ID and our article discussing if Notaries can accept learner’s permits as identification.
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
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