Key Takeaways
- Maximum RON fee is $30 per notarial act (increased from $25 in 2025)
- Technology fee of up to $10 may be charged in addition
- Total maximum for RON is $40 per act
- RON authorization must be renewed every 5 years
- Renewal requires 1-hour refresher course (no exam)
Last updated: January 2026
RON Fees & Renewal
Remote Online Notarization has its own fee structure and renewal requirements that differ from traditional notarization.
RON Fee Structure
2025 Fee Updates
House Bill 315 increased RON fees effective April 3, 2025:
| Fee Type | Previous | Current (2025+) |
|---|---|---|
| RON notarial act | $25.00 | $30.00 |
| Technology fee | Not specified | Up to $10.00 |
| Total maximum | $25.00 | $40.00 |
Breakdown of Fees
| Fee Component | Maximum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notarial act fee | $30.00 | Per act, not per signature |
| Technology fee | $10.00 | For use of RON platform |
| Total | $40.00 | Combined maximum |
Technology Fee Details
The technology fee:
- May be charged for each RON session
- May be charged even if the session fails due to identity verification issues
- Covers the cost of the RON platform technology
- Is optional—notary can choose not to charge it
Fee Comparison
| Notarization Type | Maximum Fee |
|---|---|
| Traditional (in-person) | $5.00 per act |
| Remote Online | $30.00 per act (+ $10 tech fee) |
Why the Difference?
RON fees are higher because:
- Technology platform costs
- Enhanced identity verification requirements
- Recording and storage requirements
- Additional training and authorization
RON Authorization Renewal
Renewal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | Every 5 years |
| Education | 1-hour refresher course |
| Examination | NOT required for renewal |
| Application | Submit renewal application |
| Fee | $20 renewal fee |
Renewal Process
- Before expiration: Complete 1-hour RON refresher course
- Obtain certificate: From approved education provider
- Submit renewal application: To Secretary of State
- Upload certificate: Proof of course completion
- Pay renewal fee: $20
Important Deadlines
| Deadline | Consequence of Missing |
|---|---|
| Before expiration | Must renew on time |
| After expiration | RON authorization lapses |
| Cannot perform RON | Until renewal is approved |
Attorney RON Authorization
For attorney notaries, RON authorization has special rules:
| Aspect | Attorney RON |
|---|---|
| Initial authorization | Complete training and exam |
| Term | 5 years (even though commission is indefinite) |
| Renewal | Required every 5 years |
| Renewal requirements | 1-hour course, $20 fee |
Record Retention for RON
When renewing or ending RON authorization:
| Record | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Electronic journal | Must deposit with SOS or approved repository |
| Recordings | Must maintain according to retention rules |
| Access | Must be able to produce if requested |
Travel Fees for RON
Since RON is performed remotely:
- Travel fees are generally not applicable
- The notary does not travel to the signer
- Technology fee covers platform costs
However, if the notary incurs costs related to the RON session, these may be factored into their pricing within the legal limits.
On the Exam
Key RON fee and renewal points:
- RON fee: $30 maximum per act
- Technology fee: Up to $10 additional
- Total maximum: $40
- Renewal term: 5 years
- Renewal education: 1-hour refresher (no exam)
- Renewal fee: $20
Test Your Knowledge
What is the maximum total fee an Ohio RON notary can charge including the technology fee?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What is required to renew RON authorization in Ohio?
A
B
C
D