Pennsylvania Notary Public Practice Exam

How long must Personal Knowledge identification typically occur?

1. Short-term interactions

2. A variety of situations

3. A single event

4. Over a long period of time

The correct answer is: Over a long period of time

The correct answer is that Personal Knowledge identification typically occurs over a long period of time. This is because personal knowledge refers to the notary's familiarity with the signer based on prior interactions that allow the notary to confidently identify the individual. Such familiarity generally develops through sustained relationships or repeated encounters, which ensures the notary can attest to the identity of the signer with a high degree of certainty and credibility. Personal Knowledge is an important concept as notaries are responsible for ensuring that the parties involved in a transaction are who they claim to be. Relying on short-term interactions, a single event, or a variety of situations would not provide the same level of assurance regarding identity as would a long-term acquaintance with the individual. Long-standing knowledge allows the notary to gauge not only the identity but also elements of trustworthiness and intent, which are key factors in the notarial process.