Key Takeaways
- RON allows notarization via audio-visual technology when signer is remote
- New Jersey authorized RON effective October 2021
- RON requires additional identity verification beyond standard ID
- Sessions must be recorded and retained
- Not all documents can be notarized via RON
Last updated: January 2026
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows notaries to perform notarial acts for signers who are not physically present, using audio-visual technology. New Jersey authorized RON effective October 2021.
What Is RON?
Remote Online Notarization is the performance of a notarial act where:
- The notary and signer are in different physical locations
- They communicate via real-time audio-visual technology
- Identity verification uses additional methods
- The session is recorded
New Jersey RON Authorization
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | October 2021 |
| Authorizing Law | P.L. 2021, c. 179 |
| Notary Location | Must be in New Jersey |
| Signer Location | Can be anywhere |
RON Requirements
Technology Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Audio-visual | Real-time video and audio |
| Quality | Clear enough to verify ID |
| Recording | Session must be recorded |
| Security | Encrypted connection |
Identity Verification for RON
RON requires multi-factor authentication:
| Factor | Method |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | System analyzes ID document |
| Knowledge-Based Authentication | Signer answers personal questions |
| ID Comparison | Notary compares ID to video image |
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
KBA involves asking the signer questions only they should know:
| KBA Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Question source | Public and proprietary databases |
| Number of questions | Typically 5 questions |
| Passing score | Usually 4 of 5 correct |
| Time limit | Questions must be answered quickly |
RON Procedure
Step-by-Step RON Process
- Schedule session with signer
- Verify technology works properly
- Begin recording the session
- Credential analysis — system reviews ID
- Knowledge-based authentication — signer answers questions
- Personal appearance — via video connection
- Visual ID comparison — compare ID to video image
- Perform notarial act — same as in-person
- Apply electronic signature and seal
- End and save recording
Recording Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| What to record | Entire session |
| Audio | Must capture all communication |
| Video | Must show signer and ID clearly |
| Retention | Per state requirements |
| Security | Stored securely |
Documents Eligible for RON
| Document Type | RON Permitted? |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments on tangible records | Yes |
| Wills and codicils (tangible) | Yes |
| Powers of Attorney | Yes |
| Real estate documents | Yes |
| Self-proved affidavits | Check specific rules |
RON Limitations
| Limitation | Details |
|---|---|
| Notary location | Must be in New Jersey |
| Documents | Some may be excluded |
| Technology failures | Session may need to be rescheduled |
| Signer unable to use technology | In-person may be required |
On the Exam
Expect 3-4 questions on RON:
- What is RON: Remote via audio-visual technology
- Identity verification: Credential analysis + KBA
- Recording: Session must be recorded
- Notary location: Must be in New Jersey
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Test Your Knowledge
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Test Your Knowledge
What must be done with RON sessions?
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Where must a New Jersey notary be located when performing RON?
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