Notarize Documents Online Fast Across the U.S. Now
Remote online notarization (RON) is authorized by statute in most U.S. states, but acceptance depends on state law, document type, and the recipient’s policies. This guide covers how RON works, common use cases, identity and security, interstate recognition, and tips to get your document notarized quickly and correctly.
What Is Online Notarization?
Online notarization allows a commissioned notary public to notarize documents remotely using real-time audio-video communication. Instead of appearing in person, the signer connects through a secure platform, completes identity proofing, signs electronically, and receives a notarized document bearing a digital notary seal and certificate. Many states also require the notary to keep an electronic journal entry and an audio-video recording of the session.
Is Online Notarization Legal Nationwide?
The vast majority of states have permanent statutes authorizing RON (for example, Texas and Florida), and many others have adopted uniform-law approaches modeled on the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) with remote notarization amendments. See, e.g., Texas Gov’t Code ch. 406, subch. C, Florida Stat. ch. 117 (Part II), and the Uniform Law Commission’s RULONA. Acceptance in practice can still vary by state, document type, and receiving institution, so verify requirements before you proceed.
Common Documents You Can Notarize Online
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Powers of attorney (state-specific execution rules may apply)
- Real estate documents (varies; lenders and recorders may have special requirements)
- Parental consent and school forms
- Business documents, corporate resolutions, vendor agreements
- Financial forms, certain beneficiary designations (institution policies may apply)
- Government forms that allow notarized signatures (some agencies still require wet ink)
Always confirm with the requesting party whether an online notarization is acceptable for your specific document. Some instruments (for example, certain wills or codicils) can have special execution or witness requirements that may not be satisfied via RON under a given state’s law.
How Online Notarization Works
- Upload your document (PDF or a supported format). Do not sign until instructed by the notary.
- Complete identity proofing (for example, credential analysis of your government ID plus knowledge-based authentication) as required by the platform and state law.
- Join a live audio-video session. The notary confirms identity, willingness, and awareness; you sign electronically.
- The notary applies a digital seal and notarial certificate; the platform creates a tamper-evident file.
- Download your notarized document and any platform-generated certificate for your records.
Keep your receipt and the platform’s notarization certificate in case a recipient requests verification.
Identity, Security, and Recordkeeping
RON platforms typically employ multi-factor identity verification, tamper-evident technology, and maintain audio-video recordings and electronic journals as required by applicable law. For example, Florida law requires an electronic journal and retention of the audio-video recording for online notarizations. See Fla. Stat. ch. 117 (Part II). Specific technical standards and retention periods vary by state.
Interstate Recognition and Choice of Notary Location
Many states recognize notarial acts performed in another U.S. state if the act complied with that state’s law (a principle reflected in RULONA and state recognition statutes). See, e.g., RULONA and Florida’s recognition statute on out-of-state acknowledgments (Fla. Stat. § 92.50). Because a RON is generally deemed to occur where the notary is physically located, platforms often connect you with a notary commissioned in a state that authorizes RON. That said, recorders, lenders, and agencies may apply their own acceptance policies—always confirm with the ultimate recipient.
Speed and Convenience Tips
- Use a reputable RON platform that provides a tamper-evident file and a downloadable certificate of notarization.
- Have a valid, unexpired government ID ready and test your webcam, microphone, and internet connection.
- Follow platform instructions and do not sign before the session unless directed.
- Confirm acceptance with your recipient for your document type—especially real estate, estate planning, or government filings.
- If time-sensitive, schedule ahead and keep backups of the notarized file and certificate.
Pre-Session Checklist
- Confirm the recipient accepts RON for your document.
- Prepare an unexpired government-issued photo ID.
- Ensure stable internet, webcam, and microphone.
- Have an unsigned copy of your document ready.
- Find a quiet, well-lit space for the session.
- Create or access your account on the chosen platform.
When You May Need In-Person Notarization
Some jurisdictions or institutions still require wet-ink signatures or in-person witnessing for certain transactions (for example, some real estate instruments, court filings, or documents for agencies that have not fully adopted electronic records). If you encounter resistance, ask the recipient for their specific requirements and consider in-person notarization or a hybrid approach.
How Our Firm Can Help
We advise on whether your documents are eligible for online notarization, prepare notarial certificates that meet state and recipient requirements, and coordinate with compliant platforms to expedite execution. We also review acceptance policies for real estate, financial, and corporate transactions to minimize delays.
Ready to move forward? Contact our team to discuss your document and timeline.
FAQ
Do I need to be in the same state as the notary?
No. For RON, the notary must be located in a state where they are commissioned and where RON is authorized. You can be anywhere, but the notarization is governed by the notary’s state law.
Will county recorders and lenders accept RON documents?
Many do, but policies vary. Always confirm acceptance with the specific recorder, lender, or agency before proceeding.
What identification is required?
Typically a government-issued photo ID plus knowledge-based authentication or credential analysis, depending on state rules and the platform.
Can I notarize a will online?
It depends on state law and specific execution requirements. Some states restrict RON for certain estate planning documents. Verify before scheduling.
How fast can I get a notarized document?
Often same day. Speed depends on your readiness (ID, tech check) and the platform’s availability.
Have more questions? Contact us and we will help you confirm requirements and next steps.
Disclaimer
United States notice: This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Notarial laws and acceptance of remote online notarization vary by state and by institution. Consult an attorney licensed in your state about your specific situation.
