Remote Online Notarization: Is It Legal in Your State?

Remote online notarization — RON — lets a notary verify your identity and notarize a document over a secure video session, no in-person meeting required. It's fast and convenient, but whether it's valid for your document depends on a few things worth checking first.

How RON actually works

You join a live, recorded video call with a commissioned notary. Your identity is verified with credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication, you sign electronically, and the notary applies a digital seal. The session recording is retained as part of the record.

The state question

Most states now authorize RON, but the rules differ on which notary commission is required, which documents are eligible, and whether the signer's or the notary's state governs. A notary commissioned in one state can often serve signers elsewhere — but some document types, like certain wills, are excluded.

What to confirm before you book

Have a valid government ID ready, a device with a working camera and microphone, and a stable connection. Confirm the receiving party — your lender, title company, or court — accepts RON for that specific document. When in doubt, ask us first; we'll tell you in minutes.

Kalevant Notary Services offers mobile and remote online notarization seven days a week across Iowa and surrounding states. Grab our Remote Notarization Checklist to make your session seamless.