In plain English
The signer and notary meet through a secure platform. Identity is verified through methods such as credential analysis and knowledge-based questions, and the session is recorded.
Rules differ by state, and some documents or receiving agencies may not accept it.
Why it matters
Remote online notarization lets a signer who is traveling, homebound or far from a notary finish a document without a trip. It only works if the receiving office accepts it and the signer passes identity checks, so confirming both first saves a failed session.
New Jersey allows it under its updated notary law, and the notary must be physically in New Jersey during the session.
Worked example
A signer travels for work and signs a power of attorney from a hotel on a video call with a commissioned online notary.
What to do
- Ask the office that wants the document whether it accepts remote online notarization.
- Check that you have a device with a camera, microphone and steady internet.
- Have your government photo ID ready for credential analysis.
- Be prepared to answer knowledge-based questions if the platform uses them.
- Sit in a quiet, well lit place where only you are signing.
Common mistakes
- Assuming every county recorder accepts electronic notarizations can leave a deed unrecordable.
- Joining from a weak cellular connection can drop the session midway and require a restart.
- Using an ID with glare or a worn surface can cause credential analysis to fail.
Not the same as: Mobile notary
Remote online notarization happens over live video with electronic documents, while a mobile notary travels to meet the signer in person with paper or electronic documents. See Mobile notary.
Go deeper
- How remote online notarization works in New Jersey: How a remote online notarization works in New Jersey: what you need, how identity is checked on video, how the notary is located, and what documents may not suit remote signing.
- RON Identity Verification: KBA and Credential Analysis: How remote online notarization confirms identity: credential analysis of your ID, knowledge-based questions, and what to do if the checks do not pass.
- Remote Online Notarization: Equipment and Internet Needs: A plain checklist of what you need for a remote online notarization session: device, camera, microphone, connection, lighting, browser, ID and the document file.
Related terms
- Right of rescission: A short period after signing certain refinance or home equity loans when the borrower may cancel.
- Satisfactory evidence of identity: Proof, usually a government photo ID, that a notary relies on to confirm who the signer is.
- Recording: Filing a signed document, such as a deed, with the county so it becomes part of the public record.
Common questions
What is a remote online notarization?
A notarization done over live audio and video with electronic documents, where state law allows it.
Can you give an example of remote online notarization?
A signer travels for work and signs a power of attorney from a hotel on a video call with a commissioned online notary.
Can I do a remote online notarization from outside the United States?
Some states allow signers abroad under conditions. Ask the notary and the receiving office before scheduling.
Is the video session recorded?
Yes. States that allow remote online notarization generally require a recording, kept for a set period.
General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office.