What type of identification must a Notary verify for signers?

The correct answer is that a Notary must verify a government-issued photo ID for signers. This requirement ensures that the person appearing before the Notary is indeed who they claim to be, thus helping to prevent fraud and ensuring the integrity of the notarization process. Government-issued photo identification provides a reliable method for verifying identity because it typically includes the individual's photograph, signature, and identifying information such as their full name and date of birth.

Using a utility bill, credit card, or social security card for identification does not meet the necessary standards for notarization. A utility bill may confirm an address but does not substantiate the identity of the signer with a photograph or signature. Similarly, a credit card, while bearing the signer’s name, does not include a photo or provide sufficient verification. A social security card also lacks a photo and does not serve to confirm identity adequately. Therefore, the standard practice is to require a valid government-issued photo ID to ensure a secure and reliable notarization process.