Key Takeaways
- Utah legalized Remote Online Notarization (RON) effective November 1, 2019 under HB 52
- RON allows notarization via live audio-visual technology instead of in-person appearance
- The notary must be physically located in Utah during the remote notarization
- The signer may be located anywhere with internet access
- Utah follows the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) framework
Remote Online Notarization (RON) Overview
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows notaries to perform notarial acts using audio-visual communication technology, eliminating the need for signers to be physically present. Utah authorized RON effective November 1, 2019, under House Bill 52.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
RON is a notarial act performed using:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Audio-visual technology | Real-time video and audio communication |
| Digital signatures | Electronic signatures applied to documents |
| Electronic seals | Digital version of the notary seal |
| Identity verification | Credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication |
| Recording | Audio-visual recording of the session |
Key Differences: Traditional vs. Remote Notarization
| Aspect | Traditional | Remote (RON) |
|---|---|---|
| Signer location | Physically before notary | Anywhere with internet |
| Notary location | In Utah | Must be in Utah |
| Document format | Paper | Electronic |
| Seal | Purple ink stamp | Electronic seal |
| Signature | Ink on paper | Digital/electronic |
| Journal | Recommended | Mandatory electronic |
| Maximum fee | $10 per act | $25 per act |
Legal Framework
Utah's RON law is based on the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA). Key provisions:
- Authorized under Utah Code Title 46
- Administered by the Lieutenant Governor's Office
- Requires use of state-approved technology platforms
- Mandates specific identity verification procedures
- Requires audio-visual recordings to be retained
When RON May Be Used
RON may be used for most notarial acts:
| Permitted | Notes |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments | Common RON use case |
| Jurats | Oath administered via video |
| Oaths and affirmations | Administered remotely |
| Signature witnessing | Witnessed via video |
Some documents may have restrictions:
- Certain real estate documents may require in-person notarization in some jurisdictions
- Some lenders or title companies may not accept RON
- Always verify document acceptance with the receiving party
Location Requirements
Notary Location
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| During RON session | Must be physically located in Utah |
| No exceptions | Even if signer is in another state |
| Verification | May be required by platform |
Signer Location
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | May be anywhere in the world |
| Requirements | Internet access, camera, microphone |
| Time zone | Can be different from notary |
National Context
As of 2025, over 45 states have authorized Remote Online Notarization. Utah was among the earlier adopters, and its RON framework is well-established.
On the Exam
- Effective date: November 1, 2019
- Notary must be: Physically located in Utah
- Signer may be: Anywhere with internet access
- Maximum fee: $25 per notarial act
- Journal: Mandatory electronic journal for RON
When did Utah's Remote Online Notarization law take effect?
Where must a Utah remote notary be physically located when performing a remote notarization?
What is the maximum fee a Utah remote notary may charge per notarial act?