Credible Witness Overview

The short answer: A credible witness, also known as a credible identifying witness, is a method of identity verification where a trusted individual vouches for a signer's identity. This is used when a signer doesn't have a U.S. Social Security number and can't generate Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) questions. The identity verification methods available depend on the state where the notary is commissioned.

Credible Witness Requirements

The credible witness verifies their own identity — not the signer's. Depending on the notary's state requirements, they must complete all of the following:

During the Meeting

The credible witness must:

• Join on a separate device from the signer — even if they're in the same physical location.
• Use a web browser on a computer or mobile device — not the Notarize app.
• Vouch for the signer — visually and verbally confirm they know the signer once in the meeting.

After swearing the oath or affirmation, the credible witness may exit the meeting. They cannot also act as a document witness, and won't have access to any documents or tools during the session.

How the Transaction Flows

Here's the full sequence from start to finish:

1. The sender creates and sends the transaction, adding the credible witness's contact information.
2. Two emails go out automatically — one to the signer and one to the credible witness with instructions to have their ID ready.
3. The signer starts the meeting, captures photos of their ID, and skips the KBA step.
4. The credible witness receives an email to join. In multi-signer transactions, this email sends only once all signers are present.
5. The notary is notified to join and informed the transaction requires a credible witness.
6. The credible witness completes the KBA quiz and credential analysis.
7. The credible witness joins the meeting on a separate device.
8. The notary administers an oath or affirmation confirming the credible witness personally knows the signer.
9. The credible witness exits the meeting after completing the oath.
10. The signer and notary proceed with the session as normal.

Summary Checklist

• The credible witness verifies their own identity (SSN, credential analysis, KBA) — not the signer's.
• Only one credible witness per transaction — they can vouch for multiple signers.
• The credible witness must join on a separate device using a web browser — not the app.
• After swearing the oath, the credible witness may exit — they cannot also act as a document witness.

Updated August 19, 2026 19:00