ND Notary Identification and Record Keeping

Question 1

What forms of identification are acceptable for notaization in North Dakota?

Accepted Answer

A current government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport

Answer

A library card

Answer

A student ID from any institution

Answer

A credit card with the signer's name

Question 2

What information must be recorded in a North Dakota notary's journal for each notarial act?

Accepted Answer

Date, type of act, signer's name, type of ID used, and description of the document

Answer

Only the date and signer's name

Answer

Only the type of document

Answer

Only the notary's fee charged

Question 3

How long must a North Dakota notary retain their journal after their commission expires?

Accepted Answer

10 years

Answer

5 years

Answer

3 years

Answer

Indefinitely

Question 4

If a signer cannot provide acceptable ID, what alternative may a North Dakota notary use?

Accepted Answer

A credible witness who personally knows the signer and can be identified by the notary

Answer

The notary can accept the signer's verbal assurance

Answer

Any form of identification is acceptable

Answer

The signer can provide a utility bill

Question 5

What must a North Dakota notary do with their seal and journal when their commission ends?

Accepted Answer

Destroy or deface the seal and deliver the journal to the Secretary of State or retain it securely

Answer

Throw everything away

Answer

Give them to another notary

Answer

Continue using them until reappointed

Question 6

Can a North Dakota notary identify a signer based solely on personal knowledge?

Accepted Answer

Yes, personal knowledge of the signer is an acceptable form of identification

Answer

No, a government-issued ID is always required

Answer

Only if the notary has known the person for more than 5 years

Answer

Only for family members