ONLINE NOTARIZATIONS ARE LEGAL AND ACCEPTED IN ALL 50 STATES

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Skip the Bank: Notarize Online 24/7 Anywhere in the USA

Remote online notarization (RON) lets you notarize documents over secure audio-video connection, often within minutes, without visiting a bank or offi

Skip the Bank: Notarize Online 24/7 Anywhere in the USA

Remote online notarization (RON) lets you meet a commissioned notary by secure audio-video to verify your identity and sign electronically—often within minutes. Availability and acceptance vary by state law and by the receiving institution; confirm requirements with the recipient and applicable state law before proceeding.

Last reviewed: August 19, 2025 • Jurisdiction: United States

What Is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization is a process where a commissioned notary public notarizes your document using real-time audio-video communication and digital tools. Instead of meeting in person, you appear before the notary online, verify your identity, and sign electronically. The notary applies a digital signature and electronic seal, and records are retained per state law (for example, audio-video recordings and an electronic journal). See background resources from the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) and the National Notary Association (NNA).

Is Online Notarization Legal Across the United States?

Many states authorize some form of RON and set technical and identity-verification standards. See summaries from NASS and the NNA. Not all states authorize their own notaries to perform RON, and acceptance can vary by document type and by the receiving institution (e.g., a county recorder, lender, or title company). Always confirm the applicable state’s requirements and the recipient’s preferences before you proceed.

Even where a state does not authorize its notaries to perform RON, many states recognize notarial acts performed in another state if the act complied with the commissioning state’s law. This principle is reflected in the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) and in state recognition statutes (for example, Texas Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 121.001–.004; 5 ILCS 312/7-102). However, an individual recorder or private party may still require in-person notarization.

How Online Notarization Works

  • Upload your document in PDF or another accepted format.
  • Verify your identity using state-approved methods (often credential analysis of a government-issued ID and knowledge-based authentication).
  • Connect with a commissioned notary over a secure, real-time audio-video session.
  • Sign electronically while the notary witnesses your act.
  • The notary applies an electronic seal and notarial certificate; platforms typically produce a tamper-evident, digitally signed document.
  • You receive the finalized document and, where permitted, access to an audit trail or recording per applicable law.

Exact steps depend on the commissioning state’s rules and the platform. For examples of statutory frameworks, see Florida Statutes ch. 117, Part II and Texas Gov’t Code ch. 406, subch. C.

Documents Commonly Notarized Online

Many personal, business, and real-estate documents can be notarized online, including affidavits, powers of attorney, parental consent forms, estate planning documents, and some real-estate documents. Limits may apply for certain instruments (for example, recordable real-estate documents in specific counties or documents intended for use outside the United States). Confirm acceptance with the intended recipient before proceeding.

Identity, Security, and Records

RON laws generally require: (1) real-time audio-video communication; (2) identity proofing using methods such as credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication; (3) tamper-evident electronic notarial certificates; and (4) retention of an electronic journal and audio-video recording. See RULONA remote-notarization provisions (Sections 14A–14G) and state examples like Fla. Stat. ch. 117, Part II and Tex. Gov’t Code § 406.101 et seq.

Cross-Border and Out-of-State Use

A notarization performed by a notary commissioned in one state is often recognized by other states if it complies with the commissioning state’s law (see RULONA and state recognition statutes cited above). For international use, additional steps may be required—such as an apostille or consular legalization—depending on the destination country and the type of document. See the U.S. Department of State’s guidance on apostilles: Apostille requirements.

Cost and Timing

Fees for RON vary by provider and state rules. Many platforms offer on-demand sessions and extended availability, allowing you to complete a notarization without visiting a physical office. If there are multiple signers, specialized documents, or additional identity checks, plan for extra time.

When In-Person Notarization May Be Required

Some transactions still require traditional in-person notarization due to state statutes, lender or title company policies, or recording-office practices. If your recipient specifies in-person notarization, an online notarization may not be sufficient.

Practical Tips Before You Start

  • Confirm the recipient accepts RON for your document type.
  • Have a current, government-issued photo ID ready.
  • Ensure your device has a camera, microphone, and stable internet connection.
  • Upload a clean, legible document; remove blanks unless required for completion.
  • Be prepared for identity verification questions tied to your public records.
  • Ask whether you need an apostille or special certificate for out-of-state or international use.

Pro Tip

If your document will be recorded or used out of state, email the recipient a sample notarial certificate from the RON platform in advance to confirm acceptance and formatting.

Quick Checklist

  • Recipient confirmed RON acceptance
  • Valid government ID on hand
  • Stable internet, camera, and microphone
  • All signers available and aware of requirements
  • Document is complete and legible
  • Payment method ready for fees

FAQ

Will every county recorder accept an online notarization?

No. Acceptance policies vary by county and by document type. Confirm with the specific recorder before proceeding.

Can I use a notary from another state?

Often yes. Many states recognize out-of-state notarizations that comply with the commissioning state’s law, but recipients may impose their own requirements.

Do I need an apostille after an online notarization?

Only for international use where an apostille or legalization is required by the destination country or requesting authority.

What if my ID does not pass credential analysis?

You may need to try another valid ID, answer additional questions, or use an in-person notary.

How Our Firm Can Help

We advise individuals and businesses on whether remote online notarization is appropriate for their documents, coordinate with notaries and recording offices, and address cross-state and international acceptance issues. If RON is not the best fit, we will guide you to compliant alternatives.

Contact us to get your document notarized

Citations

Disclaimer

This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws and acceptance of remote online notarization vary by U.S. state and by document recipient. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction for advice about your specific situation.

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