WITNESSES INSTEAD OF PROPER ID

There are several states that make allowances for those that cannot provide a satisfactory form of identification when requesting a notarial act by a Notary Public. The State of Florida is one of those states identified as allowing the use of what is called Credible Identifying Witnesses to help verify the identity of the signer. What exactly does this mean? It means that if you do not have proper ID, and you need to have something notarized, you can take two people to the signing to vouch for your identity. Now there are a few things that you must keep in mind. These two people must know you personally AND present proof of their own ID, such as a driver's license or state identification card. They must also swear an oath that they are not parties to the transaction, or have a financial interest in the transaction. You get it? Ok, how about I explain it a little further? Say for instance that you are giving your kid sister your old car as a graduation gift, and want to transfer ownership using a notary. Although your sister knows you personally, and has an acceptable form of ID, she will not be able to serve as a credible identifying witness for you because the transaction that transfers the ownership of the vehicle benefits her. Got it? Simply put, if a person is named in your document, just get someone else you know to be a witness. Remember, if you don't have ID, you will need two credible identifying witnesses.