Key Takeaways
- Colorado's RON law became effective December 31, 2020
- Remote notarization allows signers to appear via audio-video technology
- Must use Secretary of State-approved technology providers
- Requires separate registration beyond standard notary commission
- RON sessions must be recorded and stored for 10 years
Last updated: January 2026
Remote Online Notarization Overview
Colorado became one of the states to permanently authorize Remote Online Notarization (RON), allowing notaries to serve signers who appear via audio-video technology.
Legal Background
| Development | Date |
|---|---|
| COVID-19 temporary authorization | 2020 |
| SB 20-096 passed | 2020 |
| Permanent RON law effective | December 31, 2020 |
| HB 24-1248 updates | Effective January 1, 2025 |
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Notarial act where signer appears via audio-video |
| Location | Signer may be anywhere |
| Technology | Real-time two-way communication |
| Document type | Electronic records |
RON vs. Traditional Notarization
| Aspect | Traditional | RON |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Physical presence | Audio-video |
| Document format | Paper or electronic | Electronic only |
| ID verification | Physical ID | Credential analysis + KBA |
| Maximum fee | $15 | $25 |
| Journal | Paper or electronic | Electronic required |
| Recording | Not required | Required |
Key Requirements Overview
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Active commission | Must have Colorado notary commission |
| Experience | 6 months with active commission |
| RON registration | Separate registration required |
| Training | Special RON training and exam |
| Technology | SOS-approved provider |
| Recording | Audio-video of session |
| Electronic journal | Required for RON |
Authorized Notarial Acts via RON
| Act | Authorized via RON? |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments | Yes |
| Jurats/verifications | Yes |
| Oaths/affirmations | Yes |
| Signature witnessing | Yes |
| Copy certification | Yes |
Excluded Documents
Certain documents CANNOT be notarized remotely:
| Document Type | Reason |
|---|---|
| Wills | Statutory exclusion |
| Codicils | Statutory exclusion |
| Petition circulator affidavits | State/local initiatives |
| Candidacy affidavits | Election-related |
Geographic Scope
Signer Location
| Location | Permitted? |
|---|---|
| Within United States | Yes - any documents |
| Outside United States | Limited to certain documents |
Documents for Signers Outside U.S.
| Document Type | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Court-related documents | Yes |
| Government entity filings | Yes |
| General documents | Restricted |
On the Exam
- RON effective date: December 31, 2020
- Technology: Must use SOS-approved provider
- Recording: Required for all RON sessions
- Excluded documents: Wills, codicils, petition affidavits
- Maximum fee: $25 for RON
Test Your Knowledge
When did Colorado's permanent Remote Online Notarization law become effective?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following documents CANNOT be notarized remotely in Colorado?
A
B
C
D