Key Takeaways
- Every RON session must be recorded with audio and video
- Recording must capture the entire notarization
- Electronic journal is mandatory for all RON acts
- Electronic signatures and seals are used
- Recordings must be retained according to Ohio rules
Last updated: January 2026
RON Procedures & Recording
Remote Online Notarization requires specific procedures that differ from traditional notarization. Understanding these requirements ensures compliant RON practice.
Audio-Video Recording Requirement
The Mandate
Every Remote Online Notarization session must be recorded with both audio and video.
| Recording Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Audio | Must capture all spoken communication |
| Video | Must capture signer and notary interaction |
| Duration | Entire notarization session |
| Quality | Clear enough to identify participants |
What the Recording Must Capture
| Element | Why |
|---|---|
| Identity verification | Proof of proper procedure |
| Oath administration (if jurat) | Evidence oath was given |
| Signature process | Signer consenting and signing |
| Notary's statements | Certificate completion |
Recording Storage
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Electronic, accessible format |
| Security | Tamper-evident, protected |
| Retention | According to Ohio rules |
| Access | Available if requested for investigation |
Electronic Journal Requirement
Mandatory Electronic Journal
Unlike traditional notarizations where journals are recommended but not required, RON requires an electronic journal.
| Journal Requirement | Mandatory? |
|---|---|
| Electronic format | Yes |
| Chronological order | Yes |
| Detailed entries | Yes |
| Linkage to recordings | Yes |
Required Journal Entries
For each RON act, record:
| Entry | What to Record |
|---|---|
| Date and time | When RON was performed |
| Type of act | Acknowledgment, jurat, etc. |
| Signer information | Name, location |
| Document description | Type of document notarized |
| ID verification | How identity was verified |
| Credential analysis result | Pass/fail |
| Identity proofing result | Pass/fail |
| Recording reference | Link to audio-video file |
| Fees charged | Including technology fee |
Electronic Signatures and Seals
Signer's Electronic Signature
The signer applies an electronic signature to the document through the RON platform. This:
- Is legally equivalent to a wet ink signature
- Is applied digitally during the session
- Is tamper-evident
Notary's Electronic Signature and Seal
The notary applies:
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Electronic signature | Notary's digital signature |
| Electronic seal | Contains all required seal elements |
| Tamper-evident technology | Prevents alteration after completion |
RON Session Procedure
Step-by-Step Process
- Signer connects via video platform
- Credential analysis of signer's ID
- Identity proofing (KBA or other method)
- Visual verification by notary
- Confirm document and type of act needed
- Administer oath (if jurat)
- Signer applies electronic signature
- Notary completes certificate
- Notary applies electronic signature and seal
- Recording ends and is stored
- Journal entry completed
Technology Platform Requirements
The RON platform must:
| Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Two-way audio-video | Live communication |
| Credential analysis integration | Verify IDs |
| Identity proofing capability | Confirm identity |
| Recording functionality | Document sessions |
| Electronic signature tools | Apply signatures |
| Electronic seal capability | Affix notary seal |
| Tamper-evident technology | Prevent alterations |
| Secure storage | Protect recordings and documents |
Communication Requirements
During RON, the notary must be able to:
| Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| See the signer | Visual identification |
| Hear the signer | Verbal communication |
| Speak to the signer | Ask questions, administer oath |
| Share document | Show what's being signed |
Special Considerations
Technical Difficulties
If connection is lost during RON:
- Attempt to reconnect
- If unable, start new session
- Do not complete partial notarization
- Document the issue
Multiple Signers
If multiple signers appear via RON:
- Each must complete identity verification
- Each must be visible when signing
- Separate recordings may be needed
- Journal entries for each
On the Exam
Key RON procedure points:
- Recording required: Audio AND video of entire session
- Electronic journal: Mandatory for RON
- Electronic signatures/seals: Used instead of wet ink
- Platform requirements: Must meet Ohio standards
- Step-by-step: Know the general RON process
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Test Your Knowledge
What type of recording is required for Remote Online Notarization in Ohio?
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Test Your Knowledge
Is an electronic journal required for Remote Online Notarization in Ohio?
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D