What does verifying identity entail for a notary public?

Verifying identity for a notary public primarily involves checking identification documents. This process is crucial because it ensures that the notary confirms the individual’s identity beyond just a personal acquaintance. Proper identification typically includes government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver's license or passport, which can provide legal assurance of the person's identity. The notary must not only check that the ID is valid and unexpired but also ensure that the name on the document matches the name of the individual appearing before them.

The other options do not fulfill the requirements of identity verification as defined by notary public standards. Knowing someone personally may not provide sufficient legal verification, as it doesn't involve the necessary documentation. Requesting a social security number also falls short since it can be sensitive information and is not a standard requirement for identity verification in notary practice. Finally, getting a witness to confirm identity may not be applicable depending on the legal requirements, as typically, a valid ID is sufficient for verification purposes. Each of these alternative methods lacks the formality and security provided by checking official identification documents.