Even if a Colorado Notary personally knows the signer, personal knowledge alone cannot be used in place of acceptable identification. The notary must still require the signer to provide a valid government-issued photo ID or use a credible witness if the ID is not available.
n Colorado, a notary typically requires a government-issued photo ID to verify the signer's identity. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued photo identification that includes a signature. Utility bills and social security cards are not sufficient as they do not provide the level of security and verification required.
Colorado requires only one credible witness to verify the identity of the signer if they do not have acceptable identification. The credible witness must be personally known to the notary and the signer, and must take an oath or affirmation to confirm the signer's identity.
Colorado law requires that the notary physically inspect the original identification card to verify the signer's identity. Photographs or copies of IDs are not acceptable as they do not provide the necessary assurance of authenticity.
If a signer lacks acceptable identification, a Colorado notary can use a credible witness who personally knows the signer and can vouch for their identity. The credible witness must be someone who is not a party to the document and must be known to the notary.
