Key Takeaways
- Audio-video communication must be real-time and two-way
- Signer must give express verbal consent to recording
- Recording must be stored for 10 years
- Electronic journal entries are required for each RON
- Multi-factor identity verification is required
Last updated: January 2026
RON Procedures and Requirements
Performing Remote Online Notarizations requires following specific procedures to ensure compliance with Colorado law.
Communication Technology Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Real-time audio-video |
| Direction | Two-way communication |
| Quality | Clear enough to verify identity |
| Platform | SOS-approved provider |
Identity Verification for RON
Multi-Factor Authentication
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Digital verification of government ID |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication | Personal questions from databases |
| Additional factors | May include biometrics, one-time codes |
Credential Analysis Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Signer presents ID | Holds ID to camera |
| 2. System scans | Verifies security features |
| 3. Data extraction | Reads information from ID |
| 4. Photo comparison | Compares ID photo to live video |
| 5. Verification result | Pass or fail |
KBA Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Generate questions | System pulls from databases |
| 2. Present questions | Signer answers on screen |
| 3. Time limit | Usually 2-3 minutes |
| 4. Scoring | Must pass threshold |
| 5. Result | Verify or reject identity |
Recording Requirements
Mandatory Recording
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| What to record | Entire RON session |
| Format | Audio-video |
| Start | From beginning of session |
| End | Until notarization complete |
Signer Consent
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of consent | Express verbal consent |
| When obtained | Before recording begins |
| Documentation | Recorded as part of session |
Sample Consent Script
"This remote notarization session will be recorded. Do you consent to being recorded?"
Recording Storage
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Retention period | 10 years minimum |
| Storage method | Secure, tamper-evident |
| Access | Must be producible on request |
| Responsibility | Notary and/or provider |
Electronic Journal Requirements
RON notarizations MUST be recorded in an electronic journal:
| Entry | Description |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Of notarial act |
| Type of act | Acknowledgment, jurat, etc. |
| Document description | Title/type of document |
| Signer information | Name and address |
| ID method | Credential analysis, KBA, etc. |
| Provider used | Name of RON platform |
| Fee charged | If any |
Electronic Signature and Seal
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Electronic signature | Notary's digital signature |
| Electronic seal | Digital version of stamp |
| Security | Tamper-evident technology |
| Format | Compliant with SOS rules |
Step-by-Step RON Procedure
Complete Workflow
- Signer initiates - Requests RON through platform
- Identity verification - Credential analysis + KBA
- Session begins - Establish audio-video connection
- Obtain consent - Get verbal consent to record
- Verify identity - Confirm on video
- Perform act - Administer oath if required
- Witness signature - Watch electronic signing
- Apply seal - Add electronic stamp
- Sign certificate - Add notary e-signature
- Complete journal - Make electronic entry
- End session - Confirm completion
Special Considerations
Signers Outside United States
| Situation | Restriction |
|---|---|
| Signer abroad | Limited document types |
| Allowed documents | Court/government filings only |
| All others | Refer to in-person notary |
Interpreter Use
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| When needed | Signer doesn't speak English |
| Journal entry | Record interpreter name/address |
| Platform | Must support three-way communication |
On the Exam
- Recording: Mandatory for all RON sessions
- Consent: Express verbal consent required
- Retention: 10 years for recordings
- Journal: Electronic journal required
- ID verification: Credential analysis + KBA
Test Your Knowledge
How long must Remote Online Notarization recordings be retained?
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Test Your Knowledge
What type of consent must a signer provide before a RON session is recorded?
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Test Your Knowledge
What type of journal is required for Remote Online Notarizations?
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