Does the Person Signing the Document Need to be Present During Online Notarization?
Yes, the person signing the document must be present during an online notarization.
While online notarization offers convenience, it still requires real-time interaction between the signer and the notary public. The notary needs to verify the signer’s identity through a video conference and ensure that the signing is voluntary and understood.
This real-time interaction is crucial to maintain the integrity and legal validity of the notarization process.
What are the requirements for online notarization?
To perform an online notarization, you’ll need:
- A stable internet connection
- A device with a camera, microphone, and sound capabilities
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- To appear before the notary via a live audio-video call
Is it legal?
Yes, online notarization is legal in the United States. States have laws that recognize and accept out-of-state notarizations.
How long does it take?
An online notarial session can take as little as 5–15 minutes.
How does it work?
During an online notarization, you and the notary complete your parts of the document electronically, and the notary attaches their electronic seal and digital certificate to the document. You can then print or share the document electronically.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Connect with a notary public via video chat when it’s convenient for you. No appointment needed.
What is a remote notary?
A remote notary is a legally commissioned notary public who is authorized to conduct notarizations over the internet via digital tools and a live audio video call.
All notaries, no matter how they perform their service, must watch as someone signs a document. Historically, this has required that the notary and signer must travel to meet one another in-person where the notary serves as a witness during the signing event.
The name “remote notary” is derived from the fact that the notary serves the customer remotely over the internet.
What is the difference between Physical (Scanned) signature & Electronic signatures?
Physical (Scanned) Signature:
The signer will physically sign their document (by hand) in front of the notary. After the video session, the signer will scan and upload their signed document via the “Upload Documents” section of the meeting page. Once uploaded, the notary will notarize the document and provide the final notarization via email.
Electronic Signature:
The signer will upload the unsigned documents prior to the appointment. During the video session, the documents will be signed electronically (eSign). After the session, the document(s) will be electronically notarized and delivered via email.
What are the acceptable forms of ID that I can use?
What are the acceptable forms of ID that I can use?
- U.S. State Issued Driver’s License
- U.S. State Issued Photo ID
- U.S. Passport Book
- U.S. Passport Card
- Certificate of US citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Foreign Passport
- Alien Registration Card with Photo
- Military ID
This is not a comprehensive list. If you are unsure whether your ID will be accepted, just send us an email: [email protected] and we’ll let you know!