Key Takeaways
- RON uses multi-factor identity verification
- Credential analysis verifies the authenticity of the ID
- Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) asks questions only the signer should know
- At least 5 KBA questions are required with a minimum 80% correct
- The notary must also visually compare the signer to their ID
Last updated: January 2026
RON Identity Verification
Because the notary and signer aren't in the same room for RON, identity verification is more rigorous than traditional notarization. Multiple layers of verification are required.
Multi-Factor Verification
RON requires multiple identity verification methods:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Digital verification of ID authenticity |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) | Personal questions from databases |
| Visual Verification | Notary compares signer to ID photo |
Credential Analysis
The signer's ID is analyzed digitally:
| Check | What's Verified |
|---|---|
| Document authenticity | Is the ID genuine? |
| Security features | Holograms, microprinting |
| Tampering detection | Signs of alteration |
| Data extraction | Name, DOB, expiration |
| Format verification | Matches known templates |
Acceptable IDs for RON
| Accepted | Not Accepted |
|---|---|
| U.S. driver's license | Expired IDs |
| State-issued ID | Student IDs |
| U.S. passport | Employment badges |
| Passport card | Foreign IDs without U.S. visa |
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
KBA uses questions generated from public and private databases about the signer:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum questions | 5 questions |
| Passing score | 80% (4 of 5 correct) |
| Time limit | Usually 2 minutes total |
| Question source | Credit bureaus, public records |
| Question type | Multiple choice |
Sample KBA Questions
| Topic | Example Question |
|---|---|
| Address history | "Which of these streets have you lived on?" |
| Vehicle history | "What make of vehicle have you owned?" |
| Loan history | "Which lender provided your auto loan?" |
| Employment | "Which company have you worked for?" |
Note: Questions are randomly generated and vary for each session.
Visual Verification
The notary must also:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| View ID on camera | Signer holds ID up to camera |
| Compare photo | Does signer match ID photo? |
| Check details | Name, expiration visible? |
| Assess authenticity | Does ID appear genuine? |
Failed Verification
If the signer fails identity verification:
| Failure Type | Result |
|---|---|
| Credential analysis fails | Cannot proceed |
| KBA fails (below 80%) | Limited retries, then lockout |
| Visual mismatch | Notary must refuse |
| Technical issues | Reschedule session |
RON Security Features
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Session recording | Evidence of proper procedure |
| Tamper-evident technology | Prevents document alteration |
| Audit trail | Tracks all actions in session |
| Time stamps | Documents exact timing |
| Encryption | Protects transmission |
On the Exam
RON identity questions focus on:
- Multi-factor: Multiple verification methods required
- KBA requirements: 5 questions, 80% passing
- Credential analysis: Digital ID verification
- Visual comparison: Notary must verify signer matches ID
- Recording: All sessions must be recorded
Test Your Knowledge
What is the minimum passing score for Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) in RON?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is credential analysis in RON?
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