The short answer, and what to do instead if your ID has expired.
No — a Texas notary cannot accept an expired form of identification, under any circumstances, for any type of document. This page explains the rule and what your options are if your ID has expired before your appointment.
Texas notary law requires identification that is current and valid at the time of the notarial act. An expired document — even one that expired recently — no longer satisfies that requirement, because the issuing agency is no longer vouching for its accuracy or the holder's continued eligibility to hold it.
During the COVID-19 emergency period, Texas temporarily allowed notaries to accept certain expired Texas-issued IDs (driver license, ID card, CDL, election ID certificate) under a specific emergency provision. That emergency exception is no longer in effect. Current, unexpired ID is required.
Two options: renew the ID before your appointment, or use a credible witness — someone who personally knows you, isn't a party to the document, and can swear under oath to your identity. Tell us when you book if your ID is expired so we can plan for a credible witness or reschedule once your renewal is in hand.
It still doesn't qualify. Texas law doesn't have a grace period for expired identification: the ID must be valid on the date of the notarization, even if it expired only a few days earlier. Your two options are to renew the ID before the appointment or to use a credible witness who personally knows you.
Yes, as long as they aren't a party to the document being signed, personally know you, and are willing to appear and swear to your identity under oath. A parent, sibling or adult child often fits. Tell us when you book that you plan to use a credible witness so we can plan the appointment.
Yes. The same current, unexpired ID requirement applies to remote online notarization. RON adds its own identity-verification and credential-analysis steps on top of that requirement, so an expired ID will not get you through a remote session either. Renew the ID before booking, or tell us when you book so we can discuss options.
Information reviewed: August 23, 2026
Official references: Texas SOS Notary Public FAQ · Texas Government Code Chapter 406
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Page revised: October 11, 2026