How to Become a Remote Online Notary in Kentucky (2026)

Overview

Kentucky’s RON framework is straightforward compared to states with additional exams or heavy documentation requirements. The main gates are the training requirement and the SoS application review. Training must be completed before applying – you cannot submit the application and then take the training afterward.

KRS Chapter 423A: What Kentucky Law Requires

Kentucky’s RON law establishes the following requirements for remote notarial acts:

• The notary must hold an active Kentucky notary public commission
• RON authorization is issued separately by the Secretary of State and must be active before any remote session
• Only SoS-approved technology platforms may be used
• Two-way real-time audio-visual communication is required during every remote session
• Identity verification must use credential analysis and/or knowledge-based authentication (KBA)
• An electronic journal entry is required for every remote notarial act
• Audio-visual recordings must be retained
• The notarial certificate must identify the act as performed remotely

The Kentucky RON Training Requirement

Kentucky requires notaries to complete a training course approved by the Secretary of State before applying for RON authorization. The training covers Kentucky RON law, platform requirements, identity verification procedures, and electronic recordkeeping. The SoS publishes the list of approved training providers – check the current list at sos.ky.gov before enrolling, as providers can change. Courses from NNA and NCAN may overlap with the required content; verify whether the specific course is on Kentucky’s approved list before paying.

After completing training you will receive a certificate of completion that you submit with your RON application. Keep the certificate – applications without proof of training completion are rejected.

Selecting an Approved Kentucky RON Platform

Kentucky maintains a list of approved remote notarization technology platforms. You must select from this list – using a platform not approved by the SoS renders the notarization non-compliant. When evaluating platforms from Kentucky’s approved list, consider:

• Notarize (Proof) – largest consumer-facing volume, pays per completed session
• NotaryLive – strong scheduling and notary-side UX
• DocVerify – enterprise and financial document workflows
• SIGNiX – mortgage and title company integrations

Verify the current Kentucky-approved platform list through the SoS at the time of application – the list is updated and a platform current today may not always remain listed.

The Kentucky RON Application: What to Submit

The RON authorization application is submitted through your notary account on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website. The application requires:

• Proof of training completion from an SoS-approved training provider
• The name of the approved technology platform you intend to use
• Confirmation that your traditional notary commission is active
• Payment of the $10 application fee

Processing typically takes 2-3 weeks. Do not begin performing remote sessions until you receive written authorization confirmation from the SoS.

Kentucky’s Bond Requirement

Kentucky requires a surety bond for the traditional notary commission. The existing notary bond generally covers RON activities under the same commission – verify the current bond amount and whether any additional coverage is required for RON specifically with the SoS at the time of application, as requirements can be updated.

What Kentucky RON Notaries Can Notarize

Kentucky RON authorization covers acknowledgments, oaths and affirmations, jurats, and signature witnessing. High-volume use cases:

• Real estate and mortgage closings – Kentucky’s residential and commercial markets
• Legal documents – powers of attorney, affidavits, corporate documents
• Loan documents – consistent demand from lender and title platforms
• Out-of-state signers – Kentucky RON notaries can serve signers anywhere in the country

Common Mistakes Kentucky RON Notaries Make

• Submitting the RON application before completing training – applications without proof of training are rejected
• Using a platform not on Kentucky’s current approved list
• Performing remote sessions before receiving SoS authorization confirmation
• Not retaining audio-visual recordings for the required period
• Using traditional in-person certificate language instead of remote notarial act language

Before You Start

Kentucky RON authorization must be granted by the Secretary of State before any remote session is performed. Complete approved training first, then apply, then wait for written confirmation before taking your first job. Official reference: Kentucky Secretary of State – Notary Public.

FAQ