What is a credible witness?

• A. A person who signs the document
• B. A person who knows the signer but cannot swear to identity
• C. A person who is unrelated and cannot participate in identity verification
• D. A person who knows the signer and swears to their identity

Answer: (D)

In notary practice, identity can be established not only by presenting credentials but also through a credible witness when needed. A credible witness is someone who personally knows the signer and is willing to swear to the signer’s identity before the notary. This witness testifies that the signer appeared before the notary and that the signer is who they claim to be, which allows the notary to proceed even if the signer lacks acceptable identification.

That makes the best description the person who knows the signer and swears to their identity. Simply signing the document isn’t enough, and someone who knows the signer but can’t testify to their identity doesn’t fulfill the role. An unrelated person who cannot participate in identity verification isn’t appropriate either.