Key Takeaways
- Standard notary commission does NOT authorize online notarizations
- Separate RON authorization required from Secretary of State
- Notary must complete approved RON training course
- RON authorization term is 5 years for non-attorneys
- Notary must be physically located in Ohio during RON
Remote Online Notarization Overview
Remote Online Notarization (RON) is a method of performing notarial acts where the signer appears before the notary via two-way audio-video technology rather than in physical presence. Ohio has specific requirements for notaries who wish to perform online notarizations.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
RON allows a notary to:
- Notarize documents with signers appearing via live video
- Perform notarial acts for signers located anywhere
- Use electronic signatures and seals
- Record the session for documentation
Key Distinction: The signer does NOT need to be in Ohio, but the notary MUST be physically located in Ohio during the notarization.
Standard Commission vs. RON Authorization
| Commission Type | What It Authorizes |
|---|---|
| Standard Notary Commission | Traditional in-person notarizations only |
| RON Authorization | Remote online notarizations |
Important: Holding a standard Ohio notary commission does NOT authorize you to perform remote online notarizations. Separate authorization is required.
Requirements for RON Authorization
Prerequisites
To apply for RON authorization, you must:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Active commission | Must be an Ohio notary public OR in process of becoming one |
| Ohio resident | Must be an Ohio resident (or nonresident attorney meeting requirements) |
| RON education | Complete approved RON training course |
| Examination | Pass the RON examination |
Application Process
- Complete RON education from approved provider
- Pass RON examination from the provider
- Submit application to Secretary of State
- Upload certificates showing education and exam completion
- Pay fee (typically $20 for RON authorization)
RON Authorization Term
| Notary Type | RON Authorization Term |
|---|---|
| Non-attorney notaries | 5 years (concurrent with notary commission) |
| Attorney notaries | 5 years (requires separate renewal) |
RON Platform Requirements
Ohio law requires that RON be performed on a platform that meets specific requirements:
| Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Two-way live audio-video | Real-time communication |
| Credential analysis | Verify ID authenticity |
| Identity proofing | Confirm signer identity |
| Recording capability | Document the session |
| Tamper-evident technology | Prevent alterations |
Platform Selection
The notary is responsible for selecting a platform that:
- Meets all Ohio requirements
- Provides credential analysis and identity proofing
- Creates and stores required recordings
- Generates compliant electronic journals
Where Can RON Be Performed?
| Person | Location Requirement |
|---|---|
| Notary | MUST be physically in Ohio |
| Signer | May be anywhere (including outside U.S.) |
Why Notary Location Matters
- Ohio law governs the notarization
- Secretary of State has jurisdiction
- Creates consistent legal framework
- Platform must connect notary in Ohio to signer
On the Exam
Key RON authorization points:
- Separate authorization: RON requires separate authorization beyond standard commission
- Notary location: Must be physically in Ohio
- Signer location: Can be anywhere
- Education required: Must complete approved RON course
- 5-year term: For RON authorization
Does a standard Ohio notary commission authorize Remote Online Notarization?
During a Remote Online Notarization, where must the notary be physically located?