California Notary Public ExamIdentification of SignersMedium
A Notary Public is asked to notarize an affidavit for a long-time friend whom the notary has known for 15 years. The friend does not have any current government-issued identification. Can the notary proceed with the notarization using personal knowledge as evidence of identity?
- ANo, because personal knowledge is only acceptable for family members.
- BYes, as the notary's long-standing acquaintance with the friend constitutes personal knowledge.
- CYes, but only if the notary records the friend's Social Security Number in the journal.
- DNo, the notary must still require two credible identifying witnesses.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Yes, as the notary's long-standing acquaintance with the friend constitutes personal knowledge.
Personal knowledge is a valid method of identification when the notary has an established acquaintance with the individual sufficient to eliminate any reasonable doubt about their identity. A 15-year friendship would typically meet this criterion.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Personal knowledge is not restricted to family members; it applies to anyone the notary knows well enough.
- C. Recording a Social Security Number is never an acceptable identification procedure for a notary; it is explicitly prohibited in the journal for identification purposes.
- D. Credible witnesses are an alternative when personal knowledge and statutory ID are absent; they are not required if personal knowledge is sufficient.
Personal Knowledge Sufficiency
A Notary Public can use personal knowledge to identify a signer if their acquaintance with the individual is sufficient to eliminate any reasonable doubt about the signer's identity, based on an established relationship.
- Does not require a specific duration (e.g., 5 years).
- Focus is on the depth and certainty of acquaintance.
- It's a valid and primary method of identification.
- Requires the notary to be confident in the signer's identity.
Memory trick: Knowing them well, beyond a doubt, identity confirmed, without a shout.