I don't think that just any IBA member can sign as a witness. It must be an "authorized" IBA member. I completed this ride in November 2009. I timed it so I used two employees at El Cajan HD and two at Regency HD in Jacksonville, only about 5 miles from the beach. Here's the rule for witnesses: "Find at least one police officer, firefighter, judge, notary public or authorized Iron Butt Association member willing to sign your witness form (sample attached). You may fill out the witness section with the Police Station/Fire House address. Ask the officer to supply his badge number and note it on the witness form. Should you be unable to find a willing police officer (please note that to date, this has never been a problem for any ride - it is easier than it sounds) or you wish to start your ride from a motorcycle dealership, the Iron Butt Association will gladly accept the signature of any two dealership employees. If that is not possible, you will have to find at least three (3) independent eye-witnesses."