How to Use a Remote Online Notary

What is a remote online notary?

A notary public is an impartial witness to the signing of documents. They’re responsible for verifying the identities of each person signing a particular document, confirming their willingness and mental capacity to sign the document, and ensuring that the signer understands the nature and significance of the document being executed.

A remote online notary—also called a virtual notary, e-notary, or RON—is a commissioned notary public who uses approved technology platforms to verify identities, witness document signings, and apply electronic notarial seals—all through secure internet connections.

Traditionally, the most significant step involved in notarization is requiring the signer(s) to appear face-to-face before the notary public so they can clearly witness the act. A remote online notary brings this tradition into the modern world, allowing you to complete the entire notarization process digitally and eliminating geographical constraints and scheduling limitations that can complicate traditional notarization.

Common documents for online notarization

Many important legal documents require notarization to become legally binding and enforceable. Estate planning documents frequently need notarization, including last wills and testaments, living trusts, and powers of attorney. Business documents also commonly require notarization, such as commercial loan agreements, partnership agreements, and corporate resolutions.

Real estate transactions typically involve multiple notarized documents, including mortgage documents and property deed transfers. Check if your state allows you to use a remote online notary public for these documents. The specific requirements to get a document notarized vary by state and document type.

Benefits of remote online notarization

An online notary offers several advantages over traditional in-person notarization. Convenience tops the list—you can complete notarizations from anywhere with internet access, eliminating travel time and scheduling conflicts. This flexibility proves especially valuable for individuals with mobility limitations, busy schedules, or those living in areas with limited notary access.

Cost-effectiveness also makes the online notary process attractive, as you avoid travel expenses and can often find competitive pricing. The speed of service also improves, with the ability to get a document notarized same-day or even immediately.

Which states allow remote online notarization?

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, the District of Columbia and every U.S. state have authorized remote online notarization, except the following:

• Alabama
• Georgia
• Mississippi
• South Carolina

Connecticut has authorized RON except for real estate transactions.

State laws vary in scope and requirements, but many reflect the Revised National Electronic Notarization Standards and Remote Online Notarization Standards from the National Association of Secretaries of State.

How remote online notarization works

The remote online notarization process requires a reliable internet connection, a device with camera and microphone capabilities, and valid identification documents.

Step 1: Choose an online notary service

As the name suggests, a remote online notary works through the internet using a shared web conferencing platform. The online notary service provides the technology (via a live audio-video call), thereby allowing the signer and notary to see, hear, and speak to one another during the process. By using an online web conference platform, the previous requirement of face-to-face contact is satisfied.

Begin by selecting a state-approved online notary service that serves your jurisdiction. Create an account on your selected platform and upload the documents that require notarization. Most platforms accept PDF files and provide document preparation tools if needed. Review the requirements and fees, then schedule your notarization session.

Step 2: Prepare for identity verification

Online notary services employ rigorous identity verification processes that often exceed traditional notarization standards. Gather acceptable identification documents, typically including a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card, and make sure they’re current and in good enough shape to be legible over camera. Some platforms may require multiple forms of identification.

Prepare for knowledge-based authentication (KBA) questions, which verify your identity using information from public records and credit reports. These questions might ask about previous addresses, loan amounts, or other personal financial information. The questions are designed to be answerable only by you, adding an extra security layer.

Step 3: Join the live video session

Connect to your scheduled notary session through the platform's secure video interface. The online notary will guide you through the process, starting with identity verification and document review. Ensure you're in a quiet, well-lit environment and be prepared to show your identification documents and answer any questions the notary may have.

The notary will verify your identity using the documents and information you provided, ask about your willingness to sign the documents, and confirm your understanding of the document's contents. This mirrors the traditional notarization process but occurs through secure video technology.

Step 4: Electronic signing and notarial seal application

Once the online notary completes the online notarization requirements mandated by your state, the signer and notary both sign the document electronically. The notary will witness each signature in real time through the video connection. The notary then affixes an electronic seal to the document and records it. This digital seal carries the same legal weight as a traditional embossed seal.

The completed, notarized documents are then available for download, typically in PDF format with embedded security features. Many remote online notary services also provide certified copies and maintain permanent records of the notarization for future reference.

Remote online notary FAQs

Are remote online notaries legal in all states?

No, remote online notarization is not legal in all states, though the majority have authorized its use as of 2025. States without RON authorization typically still accept RON notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in authorized states, but you should verify acceptance requirements with the receiving jurisdiction.

What technology do I need for remote online notarization?

To get a document notarized online, you’ll need a device with camera and microphone capabilities, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone with reliable internet connection. Most platforms work with standard web browsers, though some may require specific software downloads or mobile applications.

Good lighting and audio quality improve the notarization experience and help ensure successful identity verification. Consider using headphones or external microphones in noisy environments, and position yourself in well-lit areas for clear video quality.

Can I notarize documents from another state or overseas?

RON enables notarization across state lines in many cases, but specific rules vary. Generally, the online notary must be commissioned in a state that authorizes RON, and the notarization must comply with both the notary's state requirements and the state where the document will be used. When dealing with interstate transactions, verify acceptance requirements with the receiving jurisdiction or consult with legal counsel.

International remote notarization is more complex. For international documents, consult with legal counsel or the receiving country's embassy to understand specific requirements. Additional authentication steps, such as apostille certification, may be necessary regardless of the notarization method used.

How much does remote online notarization cost?

RON costs typically range from $25–$50 per notarization, though pricing varies by platform, document complexity, and geographic location. Some platforms offer package deals for multiple documents or frequent users, while others charge premium rates for immediate or after-hours service. Additional fees may apply for services like document preparation, certified copies, or expedited processing.

Are RON documents accepted by courts and government agencies?

RON notarizations carry the same legal weight as traditional notarizations in authorized states, with courts and government agencies increasingly accepting electronic notarizations. Federal agencies, including the IRS and Social Security Administration, generally accept RON documents.

However, some organizations or jurisdictions may have specific requirements or preferences for traditional notarization, particularly for certain types of sensitive documents. When in doubt, contact the receiving organization to confirm their RON acceptance policies.

LegalZoom can help you prepare for an online notary

Before you begin the remote notary process, it’s important to make sure your documents are in order. LegalZoom can help you create many common documents you might take to an online notary.

LegalZoom's estate planning services include document preparation for wills, trusts, and powers of attorney that may require notarization in some states. You can find other common legal documents in our attorney-drafted template library. Need further guidance? Reach out to a personal attorney to guide you through whatever legal issue you’re facing.