Key Takeaways
- Remote Online Notarization (RON) has stricter identification requirements
- Credential analysis verifies the authenticity of the signer's ID
- Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) asks personal questions only the signer would know
- Multi-factor authentication may be required
- RON providers must be approved by the Secretary of State
Last updated: January 2026
Identification for Remote Notarization
Remote Online Notarization (RON) requires enhanced identity verification procedures beyond traditional in-person notarization.
Why Enhanced ID for RON?
| Factor | Reason |
|---|---|
| No physical presence | Cannot directly inspect ID |
| Higher fraud risk | Digital manipulation possible |
| Interstate transactions | Signers may be anywhere |
| Document security | Greater protection needed |
RON Identification Methods
Colorado allows several methods for RON identity verification:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Digital verification of ID authenticity |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) | Personal questions only signer knows |
| Personal Knowledge + Credible Witness | Traditional method via video |
| Other Approved Methods | Multi-factor authentication |
Credential Analysis
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| What It Does | Analyzes government ID for authenticity |
| How It Works | Digital scanning of security features |
| Features Checked | Barcodes, holograms, formatting |
| Photo Comparison | Compares ID photo to live video |
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Question Source | Third-party databases (credit, public records) |
| Number of Questions | Typically 5+ questions |
| Question Types | "What street did you live on in 2015?" |
| Passing Score | Must correctly answer most questions |
| Time Limit | Usually 2-3 minutes to complete |
Sample KBA Questions
- Which of these addresses have you lived at?
- What is the monthly payment on your auto loan?
- What color was your 2018 vehicle?
- Which of these people have you been associated with?
Comparison: Traditional vs. RON Identification
| Aspect | Traditional | RON |
|---|---|---|
| ID Inspection | Physical | Digital |
| Photo Match | Visual | Credential analysis + video |
| Authentication | ID only | ID + KBA typically |
| Witness Option | In-person | Via video |
RON Provider Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| State Approval | Must be approved by Secretary of State |
| Security Standards | Must meet encryption requirements |
| Recording | Must record entire session |
| Storage | Must retain records 10 years |
What Notaries Must Do
| Responsibility | Action |
|---|---|
| Use approved provider | Only SOS-approved platforms |
| Follow provider protocols | Complete all verification steps |
| Video assessment | Ensure signer matches ID on video |
| Record in e-journal | Electronic journal entry required |
On the Exam
- Enhanced ID for RON: Credential analysis + KBA
- KBA: Personal questions from third-party databases
- Provider requirement: Must use SOS-approved technology
- Recording: Full audio-video required
Test Your Knowledge
What does Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) verify for remote notarization?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What technology platforms can be used for Remote Online Notarization in Colorado?
A
B
C
D