Pennsylvania Notary Public Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct answer highlights a significant limitation of Personal Knowledge identification. When a notary public relies solely on personal knowledge to verify a signer’s identity, it can indeed require an extensive amount of time to establish that knowledge, especially if the notary does not have a pre-existing relationship with the individual. This verification process might involve recalling specific details about the individual or their background, which can prolong the transaction.

It's important to recognize that while personal knowledge can be a straightforward method for identification, it may not always be practical or efficient in a time-sensitive setting. Notaries often have to balance thoroughness with the need to provide timely service, and reliance on personal knowledge can complicate that balance.

The other options focus on incorrect aspects of Personal Knowledge identification. The method is indeed valid in legal situations and can be used as a legitimate form of identification. It is not inherently limited to a single transaction, as it can apply to multiple instances as long as the notary maintains that personal best knowledge of the signer. Additionally, personal knowledge does not rely on third-party verification, which differentiates it from other forms of identification that might require external confirmation of identity.