Update: As of July 2015, notaries can accept inmate ID/wristband if a inmate is currently in the possession of the sheriffs department, county jail, or prison. 

When it comes to notarizing documents for inmates, one of the primary challenges is verifying their identity. Inmates often face difficulty providing the typical forms of identification, as their personal IDs are stored away upon entry into a correctional facility. In these cases, inmate information services can be helpful in obtaining verification details.

These services allow notaries to confirm the identity of the inmate, often by referencing their inmate ID or other official records. This can be a vital in ensuring the authenticity of the documents being notarized while navigating the complexities of working with individuals who may not have immediate access to traditional forms of identification.

For individuals involved in bail bond processes, notarized documents are often a key part of securing release. Whether it’s a bail agreement, co-signer forms, or personal affidavits, these documents must be properly executed to ensure the bond is processed efficiently. Working with professionals in this area, such as those listed in the San Diego Bail Bond Agency List, can streamline the entire process. By having notarized documents in place, inmates and their families can ensure that all necessary paperwork is handled swiftly, allowing for a faster resolution of the bail process and, ultimately, their release. Notarization provides an added layer of legal assurance, making it easier for all parties involved to navigate the complexities of jail and bond procedures.

Can you use a jail/prison inmate id wristband for notarizing in San Diego County? Or in California? As a San Diego mobile Notary Public we frequently have customers calling about getting a paper notarized for an inmate. These signers often do not have their ID as it was put into storage at the jail facility when they were processed. So, how do they get identified when they do not have their id in their possession? Can you use their inmate id wristband?

The answer is somewhat complicated. You can use prison issued identification, meaning that the Calfornia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has issued the ID and the inmate is housed in a California State PRISON, not jail. In county jail, it is illegal to use the county issued wristband as id. Even if they dont have any other form of id, it is illegal/improper to use this wristband to id an inmate and notarize paperwork for them. The inmate would have to release their possessions to someone on the outside, and have them meet the notary and present their proper valid state or government issued id to be used for identification the inmate during the notarization.

Some mobile Notary Publics in San Diego County will accept inmate wristbands as identification, however, according to California Notary Public law, it is prohibited and is not considered properly identifying the signer.

Take caution when using a inmate wristband to get notarized, because is the notarization is questioned, the notary public will show as not using valid means to id the signer.