Is Remote Online Notarization Legal in Tennessee? (2025)

Remote notarization in Tennessee is legally recognized under the Remote Online Notary Public Act, which was signed into law in 2018. This legislation allows notaries in Tennessee to perform notarial acts for signers who are not physically present using audio-visual communication technology. The requirements and procedures for remote notarization are outlined in the Act, providing a framework to ensure the security and authenticity of remote notarizations while offering convenience to individuals unable to meet in person. The implementation of remote notarization has expanded access to notarial services in Tennessee and brought the state in line with the growing trend of remote transactions.

As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods of conducting essential legal duties, including notarization. One of the most significant advancements in recent years is remote notarization. In this article, we will explore the legal status of remote notary in Tennessee, including applicable laws, requirements, and procedures.

What is Remote Notarization?

Remote notarization allows individuals to obtain notarized documents without the need to meet the notary in person. The notary public verifies the identity of the signers using audio-visual technology and then performs the notarization remotely. For a deeper understanding of this practice, read our article on What is a Remote Notary.

Legal Framework for Remote Notary in Tennessee

Tennessee has embraced remote notarization as a legal practice. The state passed legislation that authorizes notaries to perform remote notarizations, compliant with specific regulations. This change aims to enhance accessibility and convenience, especially as more people seek flexible notarization options.

Key Legislation

The pivotal piece of legislation that authorized remote notarization in Tennessee is the Tennessee Remote Notary Public Act, enacted in 2019. This act outlines the requirements, procedures, and limitations for notaries public operating remotely.

Requirements for Remote Notaries in Tennessee

To become a remote notary in Tennessee, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Be a commissioned notary public in Tennessee.
• Complete the required training specific to remote notarization.
• Utilize an online notarization platform that complies with state regulations.

Those interested in understanding how to become a remote notary can find detailed guidance in our article on How to Become a Remote Notary.

How Remote Notarization Works in Tennessee

Remote notarization in Tennessee involves several steps to ensure the process is secure and legitimate. Notaries are required to follow a strict procedure:

1. Identity Verification: Notaries must use reliable and robust methods to verify the identity of the signer, typically through government-issued identification and facial recognition technology.
2. Document Examination: The notary examines the documents presented for notarization to ensure they meet all legal requirements.
3. Real-time Audio-Visual Communication: The entire notarization process must take place over an audio-visual platform that allows live interaction between the notary and the signer.
4. Recording and Retention: The notary must record the session and maintain the records in compliance with Tennessee state laws.

For an in-depth overview of the remote notarization process, check out our article on How Does Remote Notary Work.

Advantages of Remote Notarization in Tennessee

Remote notarization offers several advantages for residents of Tennessee:

• Accessibility: Especially for individuals in rural areas, remote notarization eliminates the need to travel to a notary’s location.
• Convenience: Signers can schedule their notarization at a time that suits them, often even after regular business hours.
• Efficiency: The process is often quicker than traditional notarization, as steps can be streamlined with technology.

Challenges and Considerations

While remote notarization has gained traction, there are challenges to consider:

• Technical Issues: Dependence on technology means that technical failures can interrupt the notarization process.
• Legal Constraints: Certain documents may still require traditional notarization, particularly those subject to specific state laws.

What States Allow Remote Notary?

The acceptance of remote notarization varies by state, with many states enacting similar laws to those in Tennessee. If you’re curious whether your state allows remote notarization, read our detailed guide on What States Allow Remote Notary.

The legal status of remote notarization in Tennessee reflects a significant advancement in the notary profession, providing greater flexibility and efficiency. As more individuals and businesses recognize the benefits of remote notarization, it is likely to continue growing in popularity. Whether you are a notary or someone in need of notarization services, understanding the legal framework in Tennessee is crucial for utilizing this modern solution effectively.

Get Started

If you are interested in becoming a remote notary in Tennessee or utilizing remote notarization services, ensure you familiarize yourself with the legal requirements and best practices. The future of notarization is here, making it more convenient than ever to get your documents signed and notarized.

The legal status of remote notary in Tennessee allows for notarizations to be conducted online using approved technology, providing a convenient and secure option for individuals needing notarial services. With proper implementation and adherence to regulatory guidelines, remote notarizations offer increased accessibility while maintaining the integrity of the notarial process in the state of Tennessee.

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