6.2 RON Identity Verification
Key Takeaways
- RON uses multi-factor identity verification
- Credential analysis verifies the authenticity of the ID
- Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) asks questions only the signer should know
- At least 5 KBA questions are required with a minimum 80% correct
- The notary must also visually compare the signer to their ID
Last updated: January 2026
Because the notary and signer aren't in the same room for RON, identity verification is more rigorous than traditional notarization. Multiple layers of verification are required.
Multi-Factor Verification
RON requires multiple identity verification methods:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Digital verification of ID authenticity |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) | Personal questions from databases |
| Visual Verification | Notary compares signer to ID photo |
Credential Analysis
The signer's ID is analyzed digitally:
| Check | What's Verified |
|---|---|
| Document authenticity | Is the ID genuine? |
| Security features | Holograms, microprinting |
| Tampering detection | Signs of alteration |
| Data extraction | Name, DOB, expiration |
| Format verification | Matches known templates |
Acceptable IDs for RON
| Accepted | Not Accepted |
|---|---|
| U.S. driver's license | Expired IDs |
| State-issued ID | Student IDs |
| U.S. passport | Employment badges |
| Passport card | Foreign IDs without U.S. visa |
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
KBA uses questions generated from public and private databases about the signer:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum questions | 5 questions |
| Passing score | 80% (4 of 5 correct) |
| Time limit | Usually 2 minutes total |
| Question source | Credit bureaus, public records |
| Question type | Multiple choice |
Sample KBA Questions
| Topic | Example Question |
|---|---|
| Address history | "Which of these streets have you lived on?" |
| Vehicle history | "What make of vehicle have you owned?" |
| Loan history | "Which lender provided your auto loan?" |
| Employment | "Which company have you worked for?" |
Note: Questions are randomly generated and vary for each session.
Visual Verification
The notary must also:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| View ID on camera | Signer holds ID up to camera |
| Compare photo | Does signer match ID photo? |
| Check details | Name, expiration visible? |
| Assess authenticity | Does ID appear genuine? |
Failed Verification
If the signer fails identity verification:
| Failure Type | Result |
|---|---|
| Credential analysis fails | Cannot proceed |
| KBA fails (below 80%) | Limited retries, then lockout |
| Visual mismatch | Notary must refuse |
| Technical issues | Reschedule session |
RON Security Features
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Session recording | Evidence of proper procedure |
| Tamper-evident technology | Prevents document alteration |
| Audit trail | Tracks all actions in session |
| Time stamps | Documents exact timing |
| Encryption | Protects transmission |
On the Exam
RON identity questions focus on:
- Multi-factor: Multiple verification methods required
- KBA requirements: 5 questions, 80% passing
- Credential analysis: Digital ID verification
- Visual comparison: Notary must verify signer matches ID
- Recording: All sessions must be recorded
Test Your Knowledge
What is the minimum passing score for Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) in RON?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is credential analysis in RON?
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