NM Notary Signer Identification Procedures 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During a remote online notarization in New Mexico, how is a signer's identity typically verified when the notary lacks personal knowledge?
- Credential analysis plus identity proofing such as knowledge-based authentication (Correct answer)
- A photocopy of an ID emailed before the session
- The signer's typed statement of identity
- Verification by the technology vendor alone without notary involvement
Correct answer: Credential analysis plus identity proofing such as knowledge-based authentication
New Mexico RON rules require at least two identity verification processes, commonly credential analysis and identity proofing.
Question 2: A signer presents an ID whose photo looks noticeably different from the person standing before the notary. What should the notary do?
- Decline to proceed until identity can be reasonably established (Correct answer)
- Notarize anyway since an ID was presented
- Ask a bystander to confirm the resemblance informally
- Photocopy the ID and proceed
Correct answer: Decline to proceed until identity can be reasonably established
A notary must be reasonably certain the ID matches the person and should refuse when identity is in doubt.
Question 3: Which combination satisfies identification by credible witness when the notary does not know the signer?
- A witness personally known to the notary who also knows the signer and swears to their identity (Correct answer)
- Any adult present who claims to recognize the signer
- The signer's spouse showing their own ID only
- A witness who read about the signer online
Correct answer: A witness personally known to the notary who also knows the signer and swears to their identity
The credible witness must be known to the notary (or properly identified) and must personally know the signer, swearing under oath.
Question 4: A signer offers a laminated photocopy of his driver's license. May the notary accept it?
- No, only the original identification document is acceptable (Correct answer)
- Yes, if the copy is clear and in color
- Yes, if the signer also states his birth date
- No, unless the copy is notarized first
Correct answer: No, only the original identification document is acceptable
Photocopies and reproductions are not acceptable; the notary must inspect the original ID.
Question 5: Which detail on an ID should a notary compare against the document being signed?
- The name on the ID matching the name on the document (Correct answer)
- The ID card's serial number
- The issuing office's address
- The barcode format on the back
Correct answer: The name on the ID matching the name on the document
The notary should confirm the signer's name on the ID reasonably matches the name on the document being notarized.
Question 6: A minor needs a document notarized but has no government ID. What is the most appropriate approach under New Mexico law?
- Identify the minor through a credible witness who knows them (Correct answer)
- Refuse because minors can never be identified
- Accept a school report card as ID
- Rely on the parent's ID as proof of the minor's identity
Correct answer: Identify the minor through a credible witness who knows them
A credible witness who personally knows the minor can provide sworn verification of identity when no ID exists.
Question 7: What should a notary do if a signer refuses to present any identification and is unknown to the notary?
- Refuse to perform the notarization (Correct answer)
- Notarize and note the refusal in the certificate
- Accept the signer's sworn statement of identity
- Perform the act but charge a higher fee
Correct answer: Refuse to perform the notarization
Without personal knowledge, satisfactory evidence, or a credible witness, the notary must refuse the notarization.
NM Notary Signer Identification Procedures 3
During a remote online notarization in New Mexico, how is a signer's identity typically verified when the notary lacks personal knowledge?