•  The signer does not possess sufficient identification (i.e. lost, stolen, expired id) 

And

• It is Difficult or Impossible for the signer to obtain sufficient identificiation.

Furthermore

• The 2 credible witnesses are commonly used when the Notary does not personally know the witnesses.  One credible witness would suffice if the witness is personally known to both the notary and the signer (Affiant).
• The credible witnesses cannot be financially associated or named on the document the signer (Affiant) will sign.
• The credible wintesses must swear his testimony under an oath administered by the Notary and will also sign the Notary's journal.

Not having proper and plausible id (government issued, i.e., driver's license, passport, etc.) is one circumstance; however, it is unacceptable to not have proper id simply because the signer did not want obtain one for no valid reason.  There has to be extenuating circumstances as to why proper id is not obtained by the signer.  If the signer is able to get sufficient identification, then it is his/her responsibility to do so.  The Credible Witness option is not to be abused.  It is the very last resort in properly identifying the signer.  Identity Fraud is rampant within the United States, and it is up to my fellow Notaries Public and myself to uphold the Law to the best of our abilities.

Additionally, the id should match the name as it appears on the document(s) to be notarized. If not, a "Signature Affidavit and AKA Statement" is sometimes issued by the closing agent or lender in the loan packet.