Key Takeaways
- Colorado notaries perform acknowledgments, verifications, and oaths
- Personal appearance is required for all notarial acts
- Proper identification must be obtained
- Journal keeping is required under RULONA
- Electronic notarization is authorized
Last updated: January 2026
Types of Notarial Acts
Colorado notaries are authorized to perform several types of notarial acts under RULONA.
Authorized Acts
| Act | Description |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | Signer confirms signature is genuine and voluntary |
| Verification on oath | Jurat - sworn statement of truthfulness |
| Oath/Affirmation | Administer sworn statements |
| Signature witnessing | Observe actual signing |
| Copy certification | Certify true copies (with restrictions) |
Key Requirements
Personal Appearance
The signer MUST personally appear before the notary. No exceptions for traditional notarization.
Identification
Must positively identify signer through:
- Personal knowledge
- Government-issued photo ID
- Credible witness (if no ID available)
Journal Keeping
Colorado requires notaries to maintain a journal:
- Record each notarial act
- Include date, type, signer info, ID used
- Retain for required period
Electronic Notarization
Colorado authorizes electronic notarization:
- Electronic signatures permitted
- Electronic seals permitted
- Still requires personal appearance
- Remote Online Notarization (RON) also available
On the Exam
- Personal appearance: Always required
- Acknowledgment vs. jurat: Key differences
- Journal: Required in Colorado
- Electronic notarization: Authorized
Test Your Knowledge
Does Colorado require notaries to maintain a journal?
A
B
C
D