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Identification/Subscribing Witness Notarizations

A signer lacks ID and brings two friends to serve as Credible Witnesses. The notary does NOT personally know either of these friends. What is the very first step the notary must take regarding these Credible Witnesses?

A

Establish the identities of both credible witnesses by examining their valid paper identification documents.

B

Administer the oath of identity to both witnesses.

C

Record their thumbprints in the sequential journal.

D

Have both witnesses sign the document as co-signers.

Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)

Reference: Identification/Subscribing Witness Notarizations

Source checked September 7, 2026

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Correct Answer

A. Establish the identities of both credible witnesses by examining their valid paper identification documents.

Detailed Explanation

Identifying Two Credible Witnesses. Before administering the oath, the CA Notary Public Handbook strictly mandates that if the notary does not personally know the two credible witnesses, the notary first must establish the identities of the two credible witnesses by the presentation of valid paper identification documents (e.g., driver's licenses).

Identification/Subscribing Witness Notarizations Question #220
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