What is Remote Online Notary (RON)

Remote Online Notarization, commonly referred to as RON, is the process of notarizing a document online through secure video conferencing technology. In this system, the notary and the signer meet virtually rather than face-to-face, making it possible for individuals to get their documents notarized from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection.

During a RON session, the notary verifies the signer’s identity through digital tools such as knowledge-based authentication (KBA) and credential analysis. Once the identity is confirmed, the document is electronically signed and notarized, with the notary’s seal and signature added digitally. The entire session is recorded, providing an additional layer of security and legal proof.

Now that we understand what RON entails, let’s dive into its benefits and how it compares to in-person notarization.

1. Convenience and Accessibility

One of the most significant benefits of Remote Online Notarization is the convenience it offers. In the traditional notarization process, individuals must physically travel to meet a notary public—whether that means going to a notary’s office, arranging a mobile notary visit, or finding an authorized location.

With RON, the entire process can be completed from the comfort of your home, office, or wherever you may be. Whether you’re traveling, working remotely, or simply managing a busy schedule, RON allows you to notarize documents without disrupting your day. As long as you have a computer or mobile device with an internet connection, you can meet with a notary online in just minutes.

In-person notarization, on the other hand, requires coordinating logistics. This can be especially challenging in rural areas where notaries may not be readily available, or for individuals with mobility issues. RON removes these barriers, making notary services accessible to everyone, no matter where they are located.

2. Time-Efficiency

Time is one of our most valuable resources, and Remote Online Notarization allows you to make the most of it. The traditional process of notarization can take hours—or even days—depending on the availability of a notary and the complexity of the documents involved. From finding a notary near you to scheduling an appointment and commuting to a meeting location, in-person notarization can be time-consuming.

With RON, the entire process can be completed in as little as 15-20 minutes. Since there is no need to travel or coordinate schedules, documents can be notarized quickly and efficiently. This is especially beneficial for time-sensitive transactions, such as real estate closings, legal matters, and business agreements, where delays can have costly consequences.

The on-demand nature of RON also means you can complete the process at any time—whether it’s during business hours, late at night, or even on weekends. Many RON platforms offer 24/7 availability, allowing you to get your documents notarized whenever it fits your schedule.

3. Increased Security and Fraud Prevention

Both in-person notarization and Remote Online Notarization are designed to protect against fraud, but RON offers enhanced security measures that go beyond traditional methods.

In an in-person notarization, the notary verifies the signer’s identity by checking physical identification documents, such as a driver’s license or passport. While this process is effective, it can be vulnerable to forged IDs or other forms of identity fraud.

RON, on the other hand, incorporates advanced digital identity verification methods. These include knowledge-based authentication (KBA), where signers must correctly answer questions based on their personal history, and credential analysis, where IDs are scanned and analyzed to ensure they are legitimate. Additionally, RON sessions are recorded, providing a clear, timestamped video record of the transaction. This recorded video serves as a safeguard in case of any disputes or legal challenges, offering stronger proof than a traditional in-person meeting.

By utilizing these additional layers of verification and security, RON helps to further prevent fraud and protect the integrity of the notarized document.

4. Global Accessibility

Another major advantage of Remote Online Notarization is its global accessibility. In today’s interconnected world, people are often conducting business or handling legal matters across borders. Whether you’re living abroad, traveling for work, or conducting international business, RON allows you to notarize documents without being physically present in the same location as the notary.

This is especially useful for expatriates, military personnel stationed overseas, or individuals involved in cross-border transactions. With RON, you can complete important legal transactions no matter where you are, ensuring that geographical limitations don’t get in the way of your needs.

In-person notarization, on the other hand, requires both the signer and the notary to be physically present in the same location, which can be a significant obstacle in international situations.

Conclusion

As technology continues to evolve and more states adopt RON regulations, we can expect to see a growing shift toward remote notarization as a preferred method. Whether you’re looking for the ease of online notarization or prefer the traditional in-person approach, both options serve a vital role in ensuring the integrity and legality of important documents.