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Satisfactory Evidence

Also called: identification, identity evidence

The standard for identifying a signer under RULONA when the notary does not personally know them. Satisfied by a current government-issued photo identification, or (rarely) the oath of a credible witness personally known to both notary and signer.

“Satisfactory evidence” under RULONA typically means one of: (1) a current government-issued photo ID such as a PA driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID; or (2) the oath or affirmation of a credible witness who personally knows the signer and who the notary personally knows. Expired IDs do not meet the bar. See § 307.

Source: 57 Pa.C.S. § 307 — Identification of individual

See also: personal-appearance, credential-analysis

This page is educational information, not legal advice. Pennsylvania notary law changes; always verify against the current version of RULONA (57 Pa.C.S. §§ 301–331) and 4 Pa. Code at pa.gov. Consult a PA-licensed attorney for specific situations.