Identity Verification for Online Notarizations

I recently had a client ask me if she could use a digital copy of her drivers license for identity verification purposes.  Some states have adopted the use of digital ID cards that you can keep handy in your iPhone Apple wallet. If you are familiar with Apple wallet, you know you can store your debit and credit cards on your device, then use your device to pay at the register.  The digital ID functions similar to your credit cards, and a few states have passed laws that allow this to be used.
In my own experience, I have personally eliminated carrying physical debit or credit cards.  A few years ago I set up my digital wallet, and now I can pay for items at the counter with my Apple watch or phone.  Some folks may not feel comfortable with this emerging technology, and you should note that as of publishing this article, the State of Texas has not yet decided to adopt the digital ID card.  
Why does this matter?  As a Texas Notary, I am obligated to follow the laws of this state.  Presenting a copy of your drivers license for a notarization will result in a rejection.  Texas is very specific about the type of identification they find legally acceptable.  You must present a valid, United States federal or state-issued identification.  The only exception to this law is the use of a credible identifying witness.  This also still applies to the verification process for online notarizations.
For online notarizations, you are required to capture a photo of your physical ID card or drivers license.  We inspect these images, and if we suspect you are using a digital image of an ID, your notarization will be rejected.  Online verification still requires a signer to produce a physical ID card.  We also ask the signer to display the actual card on camera, and review the holograms.  The online notarization also requires that you answer some questions that are used for added security.  So even though you do take a digital image of your ID during the online notarization, you cannot present a copy or a digital copy.  Texas law requires this.