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Key Takeaways

  • Test your technology before each RON session
  • Have a backup plan if technology fails during the session
  • Terminate the session if you suspect fraud
  • Follow all traditional notary requirements in addition to RON rules
  • Keep your RON platform credentials secure
Last updated: January 2026

RON Best Practices and Troubleshooting

Remote Online Notarization requires both technical proficiency and adherence to notarial standards. Here are best practices for successful RON sessions.

Technology Preparation

Before Each SessionPurpose
Check internet connectionEnsure stable video
Test audio/videoVerify equipment works
Verify platform accessConfirm login credentials
Check lightingEnsure you're visible
Quiet environmentClear audio communication

Security Best Practices

PracticeImportance
Secure login credentialsPrevent unauthorized access
Use secure internet connectionProtect session privacy
Log out after sessionsPrevent unauthorized use
Never share platform accessYour responsibility
Private workspaceProtect signer confidentiality

During the Session

Communication Tips

TipReason
Speak clearlyAudio quality varies
Confirm signer hears youEnsure understanding
Ask signer to confirmVerify their camera/audio
Maintain eye contact with cameraProfessional appearance
Be patient with technologyNot everyone is tech-savvy

Identity Verification

StepBest Practice
Review credential analysisDon't just rely on "pass"
Compare video to ID photoLook for discrepancies
Ask clarifying questionsVerify identity conversationally
Watch for coachingSigner should answer alone
Trust your instinctsTerminate if suspicious

Handling Technical Issues

ProblemSolution
Video freezesAsk signer to reconnect
Audio dropsUse chat feature or reschedule
Platform crashesReschedule session
Recording failsCannot proceed - must record
Signer's camera failsCannot proceed without video

When to Terminate

SituationAction
Technology cannot be fixedReschedule
Suspicion of fraudTerminate immediately
Signer appears coercedTerminate session
Identity cannot be verifiedDo not proceed
Recording not functioningDo not proceed

Common RON Mistakes to Avoid

MistakePrevention
Skipping identity verificationAlways complete all steps
Poor video qualityTest before session
Not recordingVerify recording is active
Wrong document type for RONKnow limitations
Forgetting journal entryComplete immediately after

Traditional Rules Still Apply

Even in RON, you must:

  • Verify identity (enhanced methods)
  • Confirm willingness and understanding
  • Complete proper certificate
  • Apply signature and seal (electronic)
  • Keep journal records
  • Refuse when appropriate

RON-Specific Refusal Situations

SituationReason to Refuse
KBA verification failsCannot verify identity
Credential analysis failsCannot verify identity
Cannot see signer clearlyVerification not possible
Signer appears coachedPossible fraud
Recording malfunctionRequired for RON
Platform non-compliantLegal requirement

After Technical Problems

If a session ends due to technical issues:

  1. Document what happened
  2. Note in journal if act was not completed
  3. Contact signer to reschedule
  4. Report platform issues to vendor if needed

On the Exam

  • Technology testing: Do before each session
  • Recording required: Cannot proceed without it
  • Traditional rules apply: In addition to RON requirements
  • When to refuse: Same principles plus technology issues
  • Security: Protect credentials and maintain privacy
Test Your Knowledge

If the recording system fails during a RON session, what should the notary do?

A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge

During a RON session, you notice someone off-camera appears to be coaching the signer on how to answer KBA questions. What should you do?

A
B
C
D
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