How Does Remote Notary Work?

Remote notarization — also called Remote Online Notarization (RON) — lets you get a document notarized entirely online through a live video session, without meeting a notary in person. You verify your identity electronically, connect with a commissioned notary over video, and sign digitally while they witness it.

This guide walks through exactly how remote notarization works, step by step, plus the technology behind it and what to expect.

What Is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows a notary to perform a notarization over the internet using audio-visual technology. Unlike traditional notarization — where the signer and notary must be physically together — RON lets the entire process happen online. For more background, see our article on what a remote notary is.

How Remote Notary Works, Step by Step

1. Choosing an Online Notary Service

The first step is choosing a reputable online notary service. These platforms provide secure video communication, electronic signatures, and document management in one place. Our guide to the best online notary services compares the leading options so you can pick the right one for your document.

2. Scheduling the Notarization

Once you’ve chosen a service, you schedule a time to meet the notary online. Most platforms offer on-demand sessions or flexible appointment times, and some are available 24/7.

3. Identity Verification

Identity verification is a crucial part of the process. Platforms typically use multi-factor methods to confirm you are who you say you are:

• Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA): You answer a series of questions based on your personal history.
• Credential Analysis: Your government-issued ID is scanned and analyzed electronically to confirm it’s authentic.
• Biometric Verification: Some platforms use facial recognition to match you to your ID.

For a full breakdown, see how remote notaries verify your identity.

4. Audio-Visual Communication

During the notarization, you and the notary connect over live video. The notary confirms you understand the document and are signing it willingly — just like a traditional notarization, but conducted online.

5. Document Review and Signing

You review the document and, once you confirm it’s correct, sign it electronically. Your electronic signature is as legally binding as a physical one.

6. Notary’s Electronic Seal and Certificate

After you sign, the notary applies their electronic seal and a notarial certificate, confirming they witnessed the signing and verified your identity.

7. Completion and Record Keeping

Once complete, the platform generates a digital copy of the notarized document. The session — including the video recording — is stored securely, and the notary keeps a record as required by law.

Benefits of Remote Notarization

Remote notarization offers several advantages over the traditional process:

• Convenience: Complete notarizations from anywhere with internet access, saving time and travel.
• Flexibility: Book sessions at times that work for you, including evenings and weekends.
• Efficiency: The whole process is streamlined, often taking just a few minutes.
• Accessibility: A real solution for people in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.
• Security: Identity verification and a recorded session reduce the risk of fraud.
• Compliance: Reputable platforms are built to meet state-specific regulations, ensuring legal validity.

Technologies Behind Remote Notarization

Remote notarization relies on several technologies working together:

• Audio-Visual Technology: Enables real-time video between the notary and signer.
• Electronic Signatures: Legally binding digital signatures applied to the documents.
• Identity Verification Tools: KBA, credential analysis, and biometric checks confirm the signer’s identity.
• Digital Certificates: Used to apply the notary’s electronic seal and authenticate the document.
• Document Management Systems: Securely store and retrieve the notarized files.

Is Remote Notarization Legal Where You Are?

Most U.S. states now allow remote online notarization, but a few — including California (not operational until 2030) and Georgia — don’t yet permit it for their own notaries. Even so, you can often notarize online by working with a notary in a full-RON state, as long as the receiving institution accepts it. Check the rules for your state on our RON legality by state pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote notarization legal in all states?

Remote notarization is legal in most states, but the specific rules vary, and a few states haven’t authorized it yet. Always check your state’s laws — or use an online notary commissioned in a full-RON state if the receiving party accepts it.

How secure is remote notarization?

It’s designed to be very secure. Platforms use advanced identity verification, encryption, and a recorded session, which often creates a stronger audit trail than traditional paper notarization.

What types of documents can be notarized remotely?

Most documents that require notarization can be done remotely, including affidavits, contracts, and deeds. Some — like certain wills — may be excluded. See what documents can be notarized online.

How do I find a remote notary?

The easiest way is through an established online notary service. Our comparison of the best online notary services lists reputable platforms that connect you with a qualified notary in minutes.

Are there additional costs for remote notarization?

Fees vary by platform and state. Some charge a service fee on top of the notary’s fee. See our full online notary cost guide for current pricing.

Ready to Notarize a Document Online?

Now that you know how the process works, getting started takes just a few minutes. See our guide to the best online notary services to choose a platform, or read how to notarize documents online for a full walkthrough. If you’re a notary yourself and want to offer these services, our state-by-state how-to guides cover how to get authorized.