If the signer is not personally known to you, what type of document can you rely on to confirm their identity?

When the signer is not personally known to the notary, a government-issued identification document is the most reliable form of identification to confirm their identity. Such documents include driver's licenses, passports, and state ID cards, which typically contain the individual’s name, photo, and signature. These features enable the notary to compare the information and verify that the person appearing before them is indeed the individual they claim to be.

Using a government-issued ID helps ensure compliance with notary laws and provides a level of security necessary to maintain the integrity of the notarization process. Other forms of identification, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or credit card, do not offer the same level of verification because they either lack a photographic element or are not specifically designed for identification purposes in formal legal transactions. Therefore, a government-issued identification document is essential for confirming the signer's identity effectively.