8.3 RON Procedures, Recording, and State Compliance
Key Takeaways
- RON sessions must be conducted on approved technology platforms that meet state requirements
- The entire RON session must be recorded (audio and video) and the recording securely retained
- Recording retention periods vary by state but typically range from 5 to 10 years
- Not all document types are eligible for RON in all states — some states exclude wills, trusts, or real estate documents
- Notaries performing RON may need additional registration, training, or bonding beyond their standard commission
Last updated: March 2026
RON Procedures, Recording, and State Compliance
Performing a Remote Online Notarization requires more than just a video call and an electronic seal. RON has specific procedural requirements, technology standards, and compliance obligations that notaries must follow.
Step-by-Step RON Procedure
Before the Session
- Verify your state authorizes RON and you have the required registration/endorsement
- Use an approved RON platform — Many states maintain lists of approved platforms
- Confirm the document is eligible for RON in your state
- Prepare the electronic document on the platform
During the Session
- Initiate the live audio-visual connection — Both parties must be able to see and hear each other clearly
- Verify the signer's identity:
- Credential analysis of government-issued ID
- Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) questions
- Biometric/facial recognition comparison (if required)
- Assess willingness and awareness — Observe the signer for signs of coercion or impairment
- Perform the notarial act:
- For acknowledgments: Signer acknowledges voluntary signing
- For jurats: Administer the oath/affirmation; signer signs electronically
- Complete the electronic notarial certificate
- Apply the electronic seal and signature
- Confirm the session was recorded by the platform
After the Session
- Verify the recording is saved and properly stored
- Complete the electronic journal entry
- Ensure document tamper-evidence is applied
- Distribute the notarized document to the appropriate parties
Session Recording Requirements
Every RON session must be recorded, and the recording must meet specific standards:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Audio AND video — both must be captured |
| Duration | The ENTIRE session must be recorded — from identity verification through completion |
| Quality | Clear enough to identify the signer and hear all conversation |
| Storage | Securely stored with tamper-evident protection |
| Retention | Typically 5-10 years depending on the state |
| Accessibility | Must be producible if requested by a court or regulatory authority |
Additional RON Requirements for Notaries
Beyond a standard notary commission, RON typically requires:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| RON registration/endorsement | Separate application to the state for RON authorization |
| Additional training | RON-specific education course |
| Technology proficiency | Demonstrated ability to use RON platforms |
| Additional bonding | Some states require a higher bond amount for RON |
| E&O insurance | Some states require E&O insurance specifically for RON |
Document Eligibility
Not all documents can be notarized via RON in all states. Common restrictions include:
| Document Type | RON Eligible? |
|---|---|
| Real estate documents | Yes in most states; some restrictions |
| Powers of attorney | Yes in most states |
| Loan documents | Yes — RON is increasingly used for electronic closings |
| Wills and codicils | Restricted or prohibited in some states |
| Self-proved wills | Restricted in some states |
| Health care directives | Varies by state |
Signer Location Rules
States have different rules about where the signer can be located:
- Some states allow signers to be anywhere in the world
- Other states restrict RON to signers within the United States
- Some states require the signer to have a specific connection to the state (residency, property in the state, etc.)
- The notary must always be in their commissioning state at the time of the RON session
On the Exam
RON procedure questions focus on:
- Audio AND video recording is mandatory for every session
- Retention periods vary but typically 5-10 years
- The notary must be in their commissioning state during the session
- Additional registration/training is required beyond the standard commission
- Not all documents are eligible for RON in all states
Test Your Knowledge
During a RON session, which of the following is required?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
During a RON session, where must the notary be physically located?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which additional requirement do most states impose on notaries who want to perform RON?
A
B
C
D