Free Identification & Credential Verification Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which method of signer identification is most commonly preferred by state notary laws?
- Personal knowledge of the signer by the notary
- A current government-issued photo ID with physical description and signature (Correct answer)
- A utility bill with the signer's address
- Vouching by a family member
Correct answer: A current government-issued photo ID with physical description and signature
Most state notary laws prefer a current government-issued photo ID with a physical description and signature, such as a driver's license or passport, as the primary and most reliable method of identification.
Question 2: If the signer's name on the document differs slightly from the name on their ID (e.g., middle name included on one but not the other), the notary should:
- Refuse to notarize because the names do not match exactly
- Proceed if the notary is reasonably satisfied that the person is the same individual, documenting any discrepancy (Correct answer)
- Ask the signer to obtain a new ID before returning
- Require a second form of ID for any name discrepancy
Correct answer: Proceed if the notary is reasonably satisfied that the person is the same individual, documenting any discrepancy
Minor name variations (e.g., full middle name vs. middle initial) are generally acceptable as long as the notary can be reasonably satisfied the person is the same individual. The notary should note the discrepancy if necessary.
Question 3: An expired driver's license is presented for identification. The notary should:
- Accept it if the photo still resembles the signer
- Decline to accept it — most states require a current, unexpired ID (Correct answer)
- Accept it if the expiration is less than one year ago
- Accept it if combined with a credit card
Correct answer: Decline to accept it — most states require a current, unexpired ID
An expired government-issued ID is generally not acceptable as satisfactory evidence of identity, because its validity has lapsed and it may no longer accurately represent the signer. Most state laws require current IDs.
Question 4: What is "personal knowledge" as a method of signer identification?
- The notary checks the signer's name against a public database
- The notary personally knows the signer from prior acquaintance and can vouch for their identity (Correct answer)
- The signer provides a personal written statement confirming their identity
- The signer's employer verifies their identity in writing
Correct answer: The notary personally knows the signer from prior acquaintance and can vouch for their identity
Personal knowledge means the notary personally knows the signer from prior interaction and can verify their identity without an ID. While legally acceptable in many states, it carries risk and should be used cautiously.
Question 5: A signer presents a foreign passport as identification. A notary should:
- Always refuse foreign passports as unacceptable
- Accept it if it is current and contains a photograph, as it is a government-issued ID (Correct answer)
- Accept it only if accompanied by a US government ID
- Accept it only if the document being notarized relates to international business
Correct answer: Accept it if it is current and contains a photograph, as it is a government-issued ID
A valid, current foreign government passport is generally acceptable identification in most states because it is a government-issued photo ID with a physical description. The notary should verify it is not expired.
Question 6: How many credible witnesses are typically required to identify a signer in states that use the credible witness method?
- None — credible witnesses are not permitted
- One or two, depending on state law (Correct answer)
- Three — one from each party to the transaction
- As many as needed until the notary is satisfied
Correct answer: One or two, depending on state law
Most states require either one credible witness who personally knows both the notary and the signer, or two credible witnesses who personally know the signer (but not necessarily the notary). Exact rules vary by state.
Free Identification & Credential Verification Questions and Answers 2
Which method of signer identification is most commonly preferred by state notary laws?