What must a witness provide for the notarization to be valid?

For a notarization to be valid, it is essential for the witness to provide identification if they are not already known to the notary. This identification serves as a means of verifying the identity of the witness and ensures that the notary complies with legal standards concerning the verification of individuals involved in the notarization process. The requirement of having proper identification helps prevent fraud and maintains the integrity of the notarization by confirming that all parties involved are who they claim to be.

In contrast, proof of residency is not typically a requirement for a witness in the notarization process. The notary's approval is not necessary as part of the witness's role, and sharing a memorable story about the signer is irrelevant to the legitimacy of the notarization. Hence, identification is a fundamental part of maintaining the security and legality of the notarization, making it a critical element in this context.