Washington § 42.45.050 - Identification of individual.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 42.45.050 — Identification of individual., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 42.45.050. Identification of individual.

(1) A notarial officer has personal knowledge of the identity of an individual appearing before the officer if the individual is personally known to the officer through dealings sufficient to provide reasonable certainty that the individual has the identity claimed.
(2) A notarial officer has satisfactory evidence of the identity of an individual appearing before the officer if the officer can identify the individual:
(a) By means of:
(i) A passport, driver's license, or government-issued nondriver identification card, which is current or expired not more than three years before performance of the notarial act; or
(ii) Another form of government identification issued to an individual, which is current or expired not more than three years before performance of the notarial act, contains the signature or a photograph of the individual, and is satisfactory to the officer; or
(b) By a verification on oath or affirmation of a credible witness personally appearing before the officer and personally known to the officer and who provides satisfactory evidence of his or her identity as described in (a) of this subsection.
(3) A notarial officer may require an individual to provide additional information or identification credentials necessary to assure the officer of the identity of the individual.
[ 2017 c 281 s 7.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 42.45.050

What does Revised Code of Washington § 42.45.050 cover?

Section 42.45.050 ("Identification of individual.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 42.45.050?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 42.45.050" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 42.45.050 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.