Remote Online Notarization (RON) is transforming how we authenticate documents in the digital age. This technology allows you to get documents notarized from anywhere in the world, making the apostille process faster, more convenient, and more accessible. Here's everything you need to know about RON and how it's changing the landscape of document authentication.

What Is Remote Online Notarization?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) is a process that allows a notary public to notarize documents electronically using audio-video technology. Instead of meeting a notary in person, you connect with them through a secure online platform, verify your identity digitally, and sign documents electronically—all from the comfort of your home or office.

RON is not the same as electronic notarization (e-notarization). While e-notarization involves electronic documents, it still requires the signer and notary to be physically present together. RON removes the physical presence requirement entirely, enabling truly remote notarization.

The Legal Framework Behind RON

Federal Recognition

The SECURE Notarization Act of 2023 provided federal recognition for RON, establishing minimum standards for remote notarization across the United States. This legislation ensures that documents notarized remotely in one state are recognized in all other states, removing previous legal uncertainties.

State Authorization

As of 2025, all 50 states have enacted legislation authorizing RON, though specific requirements vary by state. Some states have permanent RON laws, while others initially implemented temporary measures during the COVID-19 pandemic that have since been made permanent.

International Recognition

Many countries now accept remotely notarized documents for apostille purposes, though some still require traditional in-person notarization. Always verify the destination country's requirements before using RON for international documents.

How Remote Online Notarization Works

Step 1: Identity Verification

RON platforms use sophisticated identity verification technology to confirm your identity. This typically involves:

Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA): You answer questions based on your credit history and public records that only you would know
Credential Analysis: You upload a photo of your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, etc.), and the system verifies its authenticity using advanced document analysis
Biometric Verification: The system compares your live video image to the photo on your ID using facial recognition technology

This multi-factor authentication process is actually more secure than traditional in-person notarization, where notaries typically only check a photo ID.

Step 2: Live Video Session

Once your identity is verified, you connect with a commissioned notary public via live video conference. During this session:

The notary confirms your identity and willingness to sign
You discuss the document and its purpose
The notary ensures you understand what you're signing
You electronically sign the document while the notary watches
The entire session is recorded and securely stored

Step 3: Electronic Notarization

After you sign, the notary applies their electronic seal and signature to the document. This creates a tamper-evident electronic notarization that includes:

The notary's electronic signature and seal
A digital certificate verifying the notary's commission
A timestamp showing exactly when the notarization occurred
Metadata about the transaction

Step 4: Secure Storage and Retrieval

The notarized document, along with the video recording of the session, is securely stored in the cloud. You can download the notarized document immediately and access it anytime. The video recording serves as an audit trail and can be retrieved if questions arise about the notarization.

Benefits of Remote Online Notarization

1. Convenience and Accessibility

RON eliminates the need to find a notary, schedule an appointment, and travel to their location. You can get documents notarized 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection—whether you're at home, traveling abroad, or working late at night.

2. Speed and Efficiency

Traditional notarization can take days to arrange. With RON, you can often get documents notarized within minutes. Many RON platforms offer on-demand service with notaries available around the clock.

3. Enhanced Security

RON provides multiple layers of security that exceed traditional notarization:

Multi-factor identity verification
Tamper-evident electronic seals
Complete video recording of the transaction
Secure, encrypted document storage
Detailed audit trails

4. Cost Savings

While RON services charge fees (typically $25-$50 per notarization), you save on travel costs, time off work, and the hassle of coordinating schedules. For businesses, RON can significantly reduce operational costs associated with document authentication.

5. Better Record Keeping

Electronic records are easier to organize, search, and retrieve than paper documents. The video recording provides indisputable proof of the notarization, which can be crucial in legal disputes.

6. Environmental Benefits

RON reduces paper waste and eliminates the need for physical transportation, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

RON and the Apostille Process

Remote Online Notarization has significant implications for apostille services:

Streamlined Workflow

For documents that require notarization before apostille (such as affidavits, powers of attorney, and certain business documents), RON eliminates a major bottleneck. You can get documents notarized remotely and immediately submit them for apostille, significantly reducing total processing time.

Geographic Flexibility

If you're living abroad but need documents notarized by a U.S. notary for apostille purposes, RON makes this possible without returning to the United States. You can connect with a U.S.-commissioned notary from anywhere in the world.

State-Specific Considerations

When using RON for documents that will be apostilled, consider these factors:

Notary Commission State: The notary must be commissioned in the state where the apostille will be issued. For example, if you need a Florida apostille, use a Florida-commissioned notary
Electronic vs. Paper Apostilles: Some states can apostille electronic documents directly, while others require you to print the notarized document before apostille
Acceptance by Destination Country: Verify that the destination country accepts remotely notarized documents

Which States Allow RON?

As of 2025, all 50 states have authorized Remote Online Notarization. However, implementation details vary:

States with Comprehensive RON Programs

These states have well-established RON infrastructure with clear regulations and multiple approved platforms:

Virginia (first state to authorize RON in 2012)
Texas
Florida
Nevada
Ohio
Indiana
Tennessee
Michigan
Arizona
Montana

States with Recent RON Authorization

These states have more recently authorized RON and may still be developing their programs:

California
New York
Illinois
Pennsylvania
New Jersey

Check your state's Secretary of State website for current RON requirements, approved platforms, and any restrictions.

Popular RON Platforms

Several platforms offer RON services. Here are some of the most widely used:

Notarize

One of the largest RON platforms
24/7 notary availability
Pricing: $25-$50 per notarization
Mobile app available

Proof

User-friendly interface
Fast identity verification
Pricing: $25 per notarization
Integrates with many business platforms

NotaryCam

Established platform with strong security
24/7 availability
Pricing: $25-$50 per notarization
Specializes in real estate transactions

DocVerify

Comprehensive e-signature and RON platform
Good for businesses with high volume
Pricing: Varies based on usage
Strong compliance features

How to Use RON for Apostille Documents

Step-by-Step Process

1. Determine if RON is appropriate

Check if your document type can be notarized remotely
Verify the destination country accepts remotely notarized documents
Confirm the state where you need the apostille accepts RON

2. Choose a RON platform

Select a platform approved in your state
Ensure the notary will be commissioned in the state where you need the apostille
Compare pricing and availability

3. Prepare your documents

Upload your document to the RON platform
Have your government-issued ID ready
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and working camera/microphone

4. Complete the RON session

Verify your identity through the platform
Connect with the notary via video
Review and electronically sign your document
Receive the notarized document

5. Submit for apostille

Print the notarized document (if required by your state)
Submit to the appropriate Secretary of State office
Follow standard apostille procedures

Common Questions About RON

Q: Is RON legally valid?

A: Yes. RON is legally authorized in all 50 states and recognized under federal law. Documents notarized remotely have the same legal validity as those notarized in person.

Q: Can any document be notarized remotely?

A: Most documents can be notarized remotely, but some states exclude certain document types (such as wills, trusts, or real estate deeds). Check your state's specific requirements.

Q: How much does RON cost?

A: RON typically costs $25-$50 per notarization, which is comparable to or slightly higher than in-person notarization. However, you save on travel time and costs.

Q: Is RON secure?

A: Yes. RON platforms use bank-level encryption, multi-factor authentication, and tamper-evident technology. The video recording provides an additional layer of security and accountability.

Q: Can I use RON if I'm outside the United States?

A: Yes. You can connect with a U.S.-commissioned notary from anywhere in the world, as long as you have internet access. This is particularly useful for expatriates and international travelers.

Q: Will foreign countries accept remotely notarized documents?

A: Most countries that are members of the Hague Convention accept remotely notarized documents, but it's important to verify with the specific country's embassy or consulate before proceeding.

The Future of RON and Apostille Services

Remote Online Notarization is rapidly becoming the standard for document authentication. As technology improves and more countries recognize electronic notarization, we can expect:

Electronic Apostilles: More states will begin issuing electronic apostilles that can be attached to electronically notarized documents without printing
Blockchain Integration: Some jurisdictions are exploring blockchain technology for apostille verification, creating permanent, tamper-proof records
International Standardization: The Hague Conference is working on standards for electronic apostilles that will be recognized globally
AI-Enhanced Verification: Artificial intelligence will improve identity verification and fraud detection
Instant Apostille Services: The combination of RON and electronic apostilles could enable same-day or even instant apostille services

Conclusion

Remote Online Notarization represents a significant advancement in document authentication, making the process faster, more convenient, and more secure. For anyone needing apostille services, RON can dramatically reduce processing time and eliminate geographic barriers. As the technology continues to evolve and gain wider acceptance, RON will become an increasingly important tool for international document authentication.

Whether you're an individual needing a single document notarized or a business processing hundreds of documents monthly, RON offers a modern solution that meets the demands of our increasingly digital and global world.

Ready to experience the convenience of RON? We offer comprehensive apostille services that include Remote Online Notarization. Get your documents notarized and apostilled without leaving home. Contact us today to learn more about our RON-enabled apostille services.

Remote Online Notarization: How It Works and Why It Matters