I’ve been asked for my ID exactly once in my 18 years as a notary/signing agent here in Florida…and that was only because the couple were elderly and the wife was very sick … this was years ago… I showed my DL and he was happy. Couldn’t blame him what with his circumstances. Other than that, no one has asked for my ID ever.
In 25 years, I’ve also never been asked to see my ID. My guess is I probably look like what people perceive as a Notary Public. I have been told by more than a few people that I have an “aura”, LOL it must be a California thing I guess. My territory (where I would drive to) at one time stretched from the Mexican border to Camp Pendleton but for the last decade I have narrowed it down to richy rich coastal north San Diego county, where $50 is the new $20. I love people and this little side hustle suits me just fine.
I think I’ve been asked for my ID twice in over 20 years. On one occasion the signer was a lawyer, and wanted to see my notary ID card. I had never heard of such a thing for VT, and told him so. I did show him a copy of my commission.
I later learned that years before I became a notary the SOS used to issue ID cards; presumably the lawyer had been a notary and remembered receiving one of those.
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It’s nice when title gives them my picture and information beforehand
and kind of lets them know how this works so that they are not a nervous wreck
when I get there. Some signing services are doing that now
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sometimes it has nothing to do with presentation
but don’t worry, I’m not looking shabby or unprofessional
in the presence of these big wig $$$ signers.
That’s interesting information, thanks
yes, the laws and practices do change over time. I’ve been asked a few times why I don’t have a huge stamp machine like they remember from back in the day. I explain to them that for these particular documents it is not necessary and they get to learn something new that day 
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yes indeed, confirmation calls are so important
Yes, I wear one because I think it looks professional and helps the person you’re meeting identify you.
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That would be very unprofessional.
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I have a business card which shows the NNA Certified Signing Agent Seal and I provide everyone a business card with their loan documents. I also use a photo of my business card when I text people to confirm appointments.
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Hi Jenn,
If a notary is NNA trained it says in the handbook that we are to show our ID to our signers as a best practice. I actually carry my expired driver license in my notary pack with the seals, thumbprint pad and pens. In 10,000 signings I’ve only been asked three times to show my ID. I no longer pass out business cards because in 500 I usually get one call back. Most people don’t need notaries on a regular basis and those that do will store your number on their phone or email.
I think that sometimes people are distrustful because we aren’t signing in a title office, asking for the card is either because they like you, or they want some assurance that you are who you say you are.
Some scheduling companies send out your profile picture and even a description of your car. I know because one woman told me that I’m wearing my hair longer now and another person said he was looking for my Toyota (may it rest in peace.)
If someone requests to see my ID I have it in my baq otherwise I have to interrupt what I’m doing and go to the car. If someone asks for my business card I say it’s in the car and that usually takes care of that request. I do have three left in 1500 cards for the one time I think I might actually have repeat business.
Wearing a lanyard like a person attending a convention? No, thank you.
J
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Any time. You’re welcome!
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Just wanted to see who wears lanyards with comission on it, the ID thing I have no question on, I consider it a question of the notary’s discretion thanks
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That sounds sensible.
Interesting view point. agreed.
Yes, and no. I always wear lanyard as kinda part of getting ready for the assignment. But mine displays my Buisness card with picture and Commission #
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that sounds reasonable. thanks
Yes, I created a badge on Vistaprint with my face, name, title, and commission # on it that I wear to signings. I believe it helps to identify me, present myself as a professional, and provides a layer of safety. Because i wear this in eye view of the signers I’ve never had anyone to ask for my government ID. Also I believe it makes people feel a little more comfortable opening their door to a stranger. Also I feel safer having identified myself. I’d recommend it.
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Cool. Thanks for sharing.