Personal knowledge alone is no longer sufficient — the notary must rely on satisfactory evidence such as acceptable identification documents or credible witnesses.
Personal knowledge was codified as the preferred method of identification over documents.
Personal knowledge was replaced by a fingerprint requirement for all notarizations.
Personal knowledge was expanded to include knowing the signer for at least five years.
Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)
Reference: Civil Code section 1185
Source checked September 7, 2026
Correct Answer
A. Personal knowledge alone is no longer sufficient — the notary must rely on satisfactory evidence such as acceptable identification documents or credible witnesses.
Detailed Explanation
Personal knowledge no longer sufficient since 2008. Effective January 1, 2008, California law eliminated personal knowledge as a standalone method to establish a signer's identity. Even if a notary personally knows the signer, that alone cannot be the basis for identity verification. The notary must rely on satisfactory evidence: acceptable identification documents or the oath(s) of credible witnesses, as specified in Civil Code section 1185.
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