Key Takeaways
- Oregon authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2021 under Senate Bill 765
- RON allows notarizing documents for signers located anywhere using audio-video technology
- The notary must be physically located in Oregon during the RON session
- The signer can be located anywhere (including outside Oregon or outside the U.S.)
- Standard video chat apps are NOT compliant - must use approved RON platform
Last updated: January 2026
Remote Online Notarization Overview
Oregon authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2021 with the passage of Senate Bill 765. This allows notaries to perform notarial acts using audio-video technology.
What is Remote Online Notarization?
| Aspect | Traditional Notarization | Remote Online Notarization |
|---|---|---|
| Signer location | In person with notary | Anywhere (via technology) |
| Notary location | Any location | Must be in Oregon |
| Document format | Paper | Electronic |
| Signature type | Ink | Electronic |
| Seal/stamp | Physical | Electronic |
| Recording | Not required | Required (10 years) |
Legal Authorization
- Senate Bill 765 signed June 15, 2021
- Permanently authorizes Oregon notaries to perform RON
- Governed by ORS 194.277 and related statutes
- Oregon Administrative Rules 160-100-0800 and 160-100-0850
Key RON Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Active Oregon commission | Must be current notary |
| Physical location | Notary must be in Oregon |
| Training | Complete free SOS RON training |
| Platform | Must use approved technology vendor |
| Recording | Must record entire session |
| Retention | Keep recordings 10 years |
Notary Location Requirement
Critical: The notary must be physically located in Oregon during the RON session.
| Notary Location | Signer Location | Allowed? |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | Oregon | Yes |
| Oregon | Another U.S. state | Yes |
| Oregon | Outside U.S. | Yes |
| Outside Oregon | Anywhere | No |
RON vs. Traditional Notarization
| Element | Traditional | RON |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum fee | $10 | $25 |
| Personal appearance | Physical presence | Audio-video technology |
| ID verification | Physical ID | Credential analysis + KBA |
| Journal | Paper (bound book) | Electronic allowed |
| Session recording | Not required | Required |
| Retention | Varies | 10 years minimum |
What RON is NOT
| NOT RON | Explanation |
|---|---|
| FaceTime notarization | Not a compliant platform |
| Zoom notarization | Not a compliant platform |
| Skype notarization | Not a compliant platform |
| Phone notarization | No video - never allowed |
Standard video chat applications are NOT compliant with Oregon RON requirements.
On the Exam
- Location: Notary must be in Oregon, signer can be anywhere
- Technology: Must use approved platform, not standard video chat
- Fee: Up to $25 for RON (vs. $10 traditional)
- Recording: Required for all RON sessions
- Retention: 10 years for recordings and electronic journals
Test Your Knowledge
During a Remote Online Notarization, where must the Oregon notary be physically located?
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Test Your Knowledge
Can an Oregon notary use FaceTime or Zoom to perform a remote online notarization?
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D