Key Takeaways
- The entire RON session must be recorded with audio and video
- Recordings must be retained for at least 10 years
- The electronic document is tamper-sealed after signing
- The notary applies an electronic signature and seal
- Journal entries must note the act was performed remotely
Last updated: January 2026
RON Process and Recording Requirements
Remote Online Notarization follows a structured process with specific recording and retention requirements.
RON Session Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Signer accesses RON platform |
| 2 | Signer uploads ID for credential analysis |
| 3 | Signer completes KBA questions |
| 4 | Live audio-video session begins |
| 5 | Notary verifies identity on video |
| 6 | Notary confirms willingness and understanding |
| 7 | Signer electronically signs document |
| 8 | Notary completes certificate |
| 9 | Notary applies electronic signature and seal |
| 10 | Platform tamper-seals the document |
| 11 | Recording is stored |
Recording Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| What to record | Entire audio-video session |
| Content captured | Identity verification, signing, certificate |
| Audio | Required |
| Video | Required |
| Quality | Clear enough to identify participants |
| Start point | Beginning of session |
| End point | Completion of notarial act |
Recording Retention
| Aspect | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum retention | 10 years |
| Format | Secure, accessible |
| Responsibility | Notary (or vendor by agreement) |
| After commission ends | Must still retain for 10 years |
Electronic Signatures and Seals
| Element | Traditional | RON |
|---|---|---|
| Notary signature | Ink signature | Electronic signature |
| Official stamp | Physical rubber stamp | Electronic stamp image |
| Document format | Paper | Electronic (PDF, etc.) |
| Tamper evidence | N/A | Electronic seal required |
Tamper-Evident Sealing
The RON platform must:
- Seal the document after signing
- Make any changes detectable
- Provide evidence of tampering if altered
- Maintain document integrity
Electronic Journal for RON
| Entry | Requirement |
|---|---|
| All standard entries | Same as paper journal |
| Signer's signature | Electronic signature |
| Remote notation | Must indicate remote act |
| Format | Tamper-evident electronic |
| Retention | 10 years after last entry |
Documents with RON Limitations
Some documents require in-person notarization or have special requirements:
| Document Type | RON Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Most contracts | Yes |
| Real estate documents | Yes |
| Powers of attorney | Yes |
| Electoral petitions | No - in person required |
| Wills | Special requirements - consult guidance |
After the RON Session
The notary should:
- Confirm recording was captured
- Verify document was tamper-sealed
- Complete journal entry (noting remote)
- Provide completed document to signer
- Store recording per retention requirements
On the Exam
- Recording: Entire session, audio and video
- Retention: 10 years minimum
- Tamper-sealing: Platform must seal document
- Journal notation: Must indicate it was remote
- Electoral petitions: Cannot use RON
Test Your Knowledge
How long must recordings of Remote Online Notarization sessions be retained?
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D
Test Your Knowledge
Which type of document cannot be notarized using Remote Online Notarization in Oregon?
A
B
C
D