Key Takeaways
- Must complete mandatory free SOS Remote Online Notarization training
- RON training is separate from and in addition to Notary Basics training
- Must register for RON authorization through the Secretary of State
- RON authorization expires with your notary commission
- Must reapply for RON authorization with each commission renewal
RON Requirements and Training
To perform Remote Online Notarization in Oregon, notaries must complete additional training and registration beyond the basic notary requirements.
Training Requirements
| Training | Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Basics | Required for all notaries | FREE |
| RON Training | Required for RON authorization | FREE |
| Vendor Training | Required by your RON platform | Varies |
SOS RON Training
The Secretary of State provides free Remote Online Notarization training that covers:
- RON legal requirements
- Identity verification for remote signers
- Technology requirements
- Recording and retention obligations
- Prohibited RON activities
Steps to Become RON Authorized
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Be an active Oregon notary public |
| 2 | Complete Notary Basics Training (if not already done) |
| 3 | Complete SOS Remote Online Notarization Training |
| 4 | Apply for RON authorization through SOS |
| 5 | Select and register with an approved RON vendor |
| 6 | Complete vendor-specific training |
RON Authorization Term
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | Same as notary commission |
| Expiration | Expires when commission expires |
| Renewal | Must reapply with each commission renewal |
| Separate from IPEN | RON and IPEN are different authorizations |
RON vs. IPEN
Oregon distinguishes between two types of electronic notarization:
| Type | Description | Signer Location |
|---|---|---|
| RON | Remote Online Notarization | Remote (via audio-video) |
| IPEN | In-Person Electronic Notarization | In person with notary |
Important: RON and IPEN are separate authorization processes. If you want to perform both types, you must apply for each separately.
Vendor Requirements
Oregon requires RON to be performed using technology that meets:
- OAR 160-100-0800 requirements
- OAR 160-100-0850 requirements
- National Electronic Notarization Standards
The Secretary of State maintains a list of known compliant vendors.
Vendor Responsibilities
The RON platform must provide:
- Identity credential analysis
- Knowledge-based authentication (KBA)
- Audio-video recording capability
- Secure electronic signature functions
- Tamper-evident document sealing
- Session recording storage
Notary Reliance on Vendor
Under OAR 160-100-0140, the notary may rely on:
- Vendor's declaration that technology meets standards
- Vendor's compliance certifications
- Platform's identity verification results
On the Exam
- Training: Free SOS RON training required (in addition to Basics)
- Authorization: Separate from notary commission, expires together
- Renewal: Must reapply for RON with each commission renewal
- RON vs. IPEN: Different types, separate applications
- Vendors: Must use platform meeting Oregon standards
What happens to your RON authorization when your notary commission expires?
What training is required to perform Remote Online Notarization in Oregon?