How does a Notary verify the identity of a signer?

A notary verifies the identity of a signer primarily through government-issued photo identification. This requirement is crucial because it provides a reliable and standardized way to confirm a person's identity. Government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver’s license or a passport, contain important information including the individual's name, photograph, and often additional identifying details like their date of birth and address. This information helps to ensure that the signer is who they claim to be, thereby reducing the risk of fraud.

Utilizing personal questions or relying on social media profiles are subjective methods and do not provide the same level of verification, as they can be easily manipulated or may not accurately reflect the individual's true identity. Similar concerns apply to relying on previous acquaintances, as familiarity does not equate to verifying someone's legal identity. The use of a government-issued photo ID represents universally accepted practices in notarial acts to maintain security and authenticity in the notarization process.