What can you rely on to identify a signer who cannot present valid identification?

The correct answer is the oath of a credible witness. In circumstances where a signer cannot present valid identification, relying on the testimony of a credible witness who can vouch for the identity of the signer serves as a valid alternative. This witness must be personally known to the notary and have an understanding of the signing process, which can provide a layer of assurance regarding the identity being established. The credible witness's oath affirms their knowledge of the signer's identity and supports the legitimacy of the notarization, making it a recognized method according to notary laws.

While personal knowledge of the signer can be helpful in some cases, it may not always be adequate if the notary's relationship with the signer isn't established as required by legal standards for verification. Similarly, a birth certificate presented by a signer, while it serves as proof of identity, may not meet the necessary legal identification criteria since it typically does not contain current identifying information or a photo. Thus, the reliance on a credible witness offers a more robust framework for verifying identity in the notarial process when valid identification is absent.