Get Documents Notarized Online the Same Day in the U.S.

Remote Online Notarization lets a commissioned notary notarize documents over a secure, real-time audio-video connection. The signer verifies identity through multi-factor checks, signs electronically, and the notary completes an electronic notarial certificate with a digital seal. Most states have enacted permanent RON laws, though procedures and acceptance vary by state. See resources from the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) and the Uniform Law Commission (RULONA).

What Is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

RON is a legally recognized method in which a notary and signer connect via secure audio-video technology. The signer appears remotely, completes identity proofing (such as knowledge-based authentication and credential analysis of a government-issued ID), and electronically signs the document. The notary then completes an electronic notarial certificate and applies a digital seal. While widely adopted, exact procedures and permitted documents depend on state law and the receiving institution’s policies.

Can You Get Same-Day Online Notarization?

Often, yes. Commercial RON platforms and law firms offer on-demand or scheduled sessions that can be completed the same day, subject to:

• Notary availability and time zones
• Successful identity verification
• Document type and any special certificate wording
• Witness requirements (if any)
• Post-session steps like county recording or agency submission

Some sessions can finish within minutes; others may take longer if additional compliance steps or witnesses are required.

Commonly Eligible Documents

Documents frequently notarized online include:

• Powers of attorney (subject to state-specific rules)
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Real estate documents where RON is permitted
• Financial and banking forms
• Parental consent and travel forms
• Corporate resolutions and minutes
• Certain healthcare directives where allowed

Some documents are excluded by statute or by a receiving institution’s policy. Confirm acceptance with the requester (e.g., a county recorder, lender, or agency) before proceeding.

How Online Notarization Works Step-by-Step

• Upload your document in an accepted file format.
• Confirm the notary’s commissioning state and that your document type is allowed for RON there.
• Complete identity proofing (for example, knowledge-based questions and credential analysis of a government-issued ID) and appear live via audio-video.
• Meet with the notary by secure video; the notary will confirm willingness to sign, awareness, and administer any required oath or affirmation.
• Electronically sign; the notary applies an electronic seal and completes the notarial certificate.
• Download the finalized document with tamper-evident measures (often a digitally signed PDF) and any platform audit trail. Follow any additional instructions if the document must be recorded or submitted to an agency.

For general RON process overviews, see the National Notary Association.

Interstate Recognition and Acceptance

Many states recognize notarizations performed by a notary commissioned in another state, so long as the notarization complied with the other state’s laws. This principle, reflected in state statutes modeled on the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA), generally applies to traditional and remote notarizations. However, acceptance policies can differ by agency or county recorder, especially for real property documents. Always verify local requirements before relying on an out-of-state RON.

Identity, Technology, and Recordkeeping

RON frameworks typically require:

• Multi-factor identity proofing and credential analysis
• Real-time, two-way audio-video communication
• Use of tamper-evident technology on the final document
• Retention of an audio-video recording and, in many states, an electronic journal for a specified period

Specific methods and retention periods vary by state. See state-by-state materials collected by NASS.

Witnesses and Special Documents

Certain documents require one or more witnesses in addition to notarization (for example, some estate planning documents and particular real estate instruments). States differ on whether witnesses may appear remotely during a RON session or must be physically present with the signer. If witnesses are needed, scheduling them can affect same-day availability. Confirm the receiving institution’s witness and execution preferences ahead of time.

Costs and Payment

RON providers typically charge per notarization and may add fees for extra signers, additional seals, longer sessions, extra pages, or coordinating witnesses. Some states cap notarial fees. Review pricing and any limits on the number of acts per session before booking.

Tips to Help You Finish the Same Day

FAQs

Are all U.S. states allowing RON?

Most states authorize some form of RON, but requirements and permitted documents vary. Always check the rules of the notary’s commissioning state and the recipient’s policy.

Will my county recorder accept an online-notarized deed?

Many do, but policies differ by county and state. Confirm with the recorder before proceeding, especially for real property documents.

What IDs are acceptable for RON?

Typically a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport, subject to credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication where required.

Can witnesses join remotely?

Some states allow remote witnesses during RON; others require witnesses to be physically present with the signer. Verify your state’s rules and the recipient’s preferences.

How fast can I get it done?

Simple sessions can finish in minutes if identity checks pass and witnesses are ready. Complexity, scheduling, or recording needs can extend the timeline.

When Online Notarization May Not Be the Right Fit

Some agencies or recorders still require wet-ink signatures or have not fully adopted RON for certain document categories. International use can involve added steps (such as apostille or consular legalization), and not all foreign authorities accept RON-executed documents. In such cases, an in-person notarization or a specialized process may be required.

How Our Firm Can Help

We can assess whether your document is eligible for RON under applicable state law, coordinate same-day availability when possible, and guide you through witness, recording, and cross-border acceptance issues. If RON is not advisable for your use case, we will identify alternatives to meet your timeline. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Sources

• National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) – Remote Notarization Resources
• National Notary Association – Remote Online Notarization Overview
• Uniform Law Commission – Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) resources

Disclaimer

United States: This blog provides general information and is not legal advice. Notary laws, RON eligibility, fees, and acceptance policies vary by state and may change. Reading this post does not create an attorney–client relationship. Consult a qualified attorney licensed in your state for advice about your specific situation. For assistance today, contact us.