Key Takeaways
- Remote Online Notarization (RON) requires enhanced identity verification
- Credential analysis uses technology to verify ID authenticity
- Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) asks questions only the signer should know
- The notary must still visually compare the signer to their ID via video
- RON sessions must be recorded and stored for specified periods
Last updated: January 2026
Remote Identification Requirements
New York legalized Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2022, enabling notarizations via audio-visual technology. RON requires enhanced identity verification beyond traditional in-person methods.
Enhanced Identity Verification for RON
| Verification Layer | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Verify ID is authentic |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) | Confirm identity through questions |
| Visual Verification | Notary compares signer to ID photo |
Credential Analysis
Technology-based verification that analyzes:
| Element Analyzed | What It Checks |
|---|---|
| ID authenticity | Security features, holograms, formatting |
| Document validity | Expiration date, issue date |
| Tampering detection | Alterations or modifications |
| Database verification | Cross-references official records |
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
| KBA Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | Minimum 5 questions |
| Passing score | At least 80% (4 of 5 correct) |
| Time limit | Typically 2-3 minutes |
| Question source | Credit bureaus, public records |
| Failed attempts | Usually limited to 2 attempts |
Types of KBA Questions
| Category | Example Question Type |
|---|---|
| Financial history | Previous addresses, loan accounts |
| Property records | Former home addresses, property ownership |
| Public records | Vehicle registrations, court records |
| Employment | Previous employers, job titles |
Visual Verification
Even with technology, the notary must:
| Requirement | Action |
|---|---|
| Compare photo | Match signer's face to ID photo |
| Assess awareness | Confirm signer is alert and willing |
| Check appearance | Verify physical description matches |
| Monitor behavior | Watch for signs of coercion |
Recording Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| What to record | Entire notarial session |
| Audio | Required |
| Video | Required |
| Storage period | Minimum 10 years |
| Format | Tamper-evident |
On the Exam
Questions on remote identification focus on:
- Credential analysis: Technology verifies ID authenticity
- KBA: 5 questions, 80% passing
- Visual verification: Notary must still compare signer to photo
- Recording: Required for all RON sessions
Test Your Knowledge
What is the minimum passing score for Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) in remote notarization?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is credential analysis in remote online notarization?
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Test Your Knowledge
How long must recordings of RON sessions be stored in New York?
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