Key Takeaways
- RON allows notarization via real-time audio-visual technology
- Arizona authorized RON effective July 1, 2020
- Additional registration with Secretary of State is required for RON
- Identity verification requires knowledge-based authentication (KBA) and credential analysis
- RON sessions must be recorded and stored for at least 10 years
Last updated: January 2026
Remote Online Notarization (RON) Overview
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows notaries to perform notarial acts for signers who are not physically present. Instead, the notary and signer connect via real-time audio-visual technology.
What Is RON?
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Technology | Two-way audio-visual communication |
| Location | Signer can be anywhere in the world |
| Session | Real-time (not pre-recorded) |
| Recording | Entire session must be recorded |
Arizona RON Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 1, 2020 | RON authorized in Arizona |
| 2020-present | Additional rules and platforms approved |
| July 1, 2025 | Exam now covers RON procedures |
Traditional vs. RON
| Aspect | Traditional Notarization | RON |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Same physical location | Different locations |
| Communication | In-person | Audio-visual technology |
| Identity verification | Physical ID inspection | Credential analysis + KBA |
| Signature | Wet signature | Electronic signature |
| Seal | Physical ink stamp | Electronic seal |
| Journal | Paper journal | Electronic journal |
| Recording | Not required | Required |
Who Can Perform RON?
To perform RON in Arizona, you must:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Be an Arizona notary | Have active commission |
| Register for RON | Additional registration with SOS |
| Use approved technology | Secretary of State approved platform |
| Complete training | Platform-specific training |
| Maintain electronic records | 10-year retention |
Benefits of RON
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Signers don't need to travel |
| Accessibility | Helps disabled or homebound signers |
| Security | Multiple identity verification layers |
| Record keeping | Complete audio-visual recording |
| Availability | Can be done after business hours |
Limitations of RON
| Limitation | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology required | Both parties need internet/camera |
| Not all documents | Some documents excluded by law |
| Platform costs | Monthly/per-notarization fees |
| Learning curve | Requires technical proficiency |
On the Exam
RON questions focus on:
- Definition: Real-time audio-visual technology
- Authorization: Separate RON registration required
- Recording: Sessions must be recorded
- Storage: 10-year retention requirement
- Identity: Enhanced verification (KBA + credential analysis)
Test Your Knowledge
What type of technology is used for Remote Online Notarization?
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Test Your Knowledge
How long must Arizona notaries retain RON session recordings?
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