Signer Identification Requirements Flashcards

Which form of identification is explicitly recognized as 'satisfactory evidence' of identity under Utah Code § 46-1-2?

Answer: A current passport issued by a foreign government

Utah Code § 46-1-2 recognizes a current passport issued by a foreign government as satisfactory evidence of identity.

What is the 'credible witness' method of identification under Utah law?

Answer: A person known to the notary swears under oath that the signer is who they claim to be

A credible witness is a person personally known to the notary who takes an oath swearing to the signer's identity when the signer lacks acceptable ID.

A signer presents a driver license that expired 6 months ago. What should the Utah notary do?

Answer: Reject it and require a current, valid ID

Satisfactory evidence under Utah Code § 46-1-2 requires a current (not expired) government-issued photo ID. An expired document does not meet this standard.

Personal knowledge as a basis for identifying a signer in Utah means the notary:

Answer: Has personal, direct knowledge of the signer's identity through prior acquaintance

Personal knowledge requires the notary to have direct, firsthand knowledge of the signer's identity based on prior acquaintance, not merely casual recognition.

If a signer cannot produce acceptable identification, which TWO methods may a Utah notary use to establish identity?

Answer: Personal knowledge of the notary OR a credible witness known to the notary

Utah Code § 46-1-2 allows identity to be established through personal knowledge of the notary or through the oath of a credible witness known to the notary.

Can a Utah notary rely solely on a signer's verbal statement of their own name as satisfactory identification?

Answer: No, verbal self-identification alone does not constitute satisfactory evidence under Utah law

Utah Code § 46-1-2 requires objective evidence of identity — personal knowledge, acceptable ID, or a credible witness — not a mere verbal declaration by the signer.