Key Takeaways
- Electronic signature and seal must be attached to document
- Certificate language is the same as traditional notarization
- Must use tamper-evident technology
- Principal must understand they are signing electronically
- Notary must be able to verify document integrity
Last updated: January 2026
Electronic Notarization Procedures
While electronic notarization uses different technology, the fundamental procedures and requirements parallel traditional notarization.
Core Procedures
| Step | Traditional | Electronic |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Appearance | Physical presence | Physical OR via video (RON) |
| Identity Verification | ID or personal knowledge | ID or personal knowledge + credential analysis (RON) |
| Document Presentation | Paper document | Electronic document on screen |
| Signature | Handwritten ink signature | Electronic signature |
| Notary Signature | Handwritten ink signature | Electronic signature |
| Seal | Physical stamp/embosser | Electronic seal image |
| Certificate | Written on document | Attached electronically |
Electronic Signature Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Principal reviews electronic document |
| 2 | Principal confirms understanding of document |
| 3 | Principal applies electronic signature |
| 4 | Notary verifies signature application |
| 5 | Notary applies electronic signature |
| 6 | Notary applies electronic seal |
| 7 | Document becomes tamper-evident |
Electronic Seal Requirements
The electronic seal must include the same elements as a traditional seal:
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Notary's Name | As shown on commission |
| "Notary Public" | These words required |
| County | County of commission |
| State | North Carolina (or abbreviation) |
| Expiration Date | Commission expiration |
Tamper-Evident Technology
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Document Integrity | Detects any changes after notarization |
| Signature Verification | Confirms signatures are authentic |
| Seal Verification | Confirms seal is authentic |
| Audit Trail | Tracks all document access and changes |
Certificate Requirements
Electronic notarial certificates must include:
| Element | Same as Traditional? |
|---|---|
| Venue (State and County) | Yes |
| Statutory Language | Yes |
| Notary's Electronic Signature | Equivalent |
| Electronic Seal | Equivalent |
| Date of Notarization | Yes |
| Commission Expiration | Yes |
In-Person Electronic Notarization Steps
- Principal Appears - Physically present before notary
- Identity Verified - Personal knowledge or acceptable ID
- Document Reviewed - Principal reviews electronic document on screen
- Understanding Confirmed - Principal understands they are signing electronically
- Electronic Signature - Principal applies electronic signature
- Notarization Complete - Notary applies signature and seal
RON Procedure Steps
- Connection Established - Audio-video session begins
- Disclosure Made - Inform of recording requirement
- Identity Verified - Credential analysis + knowledge-based authentication
- Document Presented - Shared on screen
- Willingness Confirmed - Principal confirms voluntary signing
- Electronic Signing - Principal signs electronically
- Notarization Complete - Notary signs and seals
- Recording Saved - Session recording stored securely
Key Points for the Exam
- Same legal effect: Electronic notarization equals traditional
- Electronic seal: Same elements as traditional seal
- Tamper-evident: Required for all electronic notarizations
- Certificate language: Same as traditional notarization
- RON disclosure: Must inform of recording requirement
Test Your Knowledge
What makes an electronically notarized document tamper-evident?
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B
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D
Test Your Knowledge
Before performing a RON notarization, what must the notary inform the principal?
A
B
C
D
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