What should a notary do if the signer cannot produce acceptable ID?

• A. Proceed without identification.
• B. Refuse to notarize or use permissible verification methods (e.g., credible witnesses) and document the situation in the notary journal.
• C. Demand payment first.
• D. Ask for a sworn statement from the signer.

Answer: (B)

Identity verification is essential for a valid notarial act. A signer must be identified with acceptable identification documents before a notarization can proceed. When acceptable ID cannot be produced, the notary should not simply proceed. Instead, the notary may use permissible verification methods, such as credible witnesses who personally know the signer and can identify them in the notary’s presence, and then document this method in the notary journal. Recording the circumstances—date and time, the signer’s name, the witnesses’ names and addresses, and the specific method used to verify identity—creates a verifiable record and helps prevent fraud. If neither identification nor a permissible verification method is available, the notary should refuse to notarize.