If identity cannot be established by acceptable means, the notary should:

• A. Proceed with the notarization.
• B. Request the signer to provide additional supporting documentation.
• C. Refuse to notarize.
• D. Ask the signer to reschedule.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a notary can only perform a notarization after proving the signer’s identity with acceptable evidence. If identity cannot be established by acceptable means, the notary must refuse. This protects the integrity of the act and helps prevent fraud. Since the signer’s identity cannot be verified, proceeding would violate notarial rules, so refusing is the proper course. Rescheduling or asking for more documents wouldn’t fix the fundamental issue of not being able to establish identity, and attempting to notarize without proper identification would be inappropriate. Document the refusal appropriately in the notary journal and with the signer.