Key Takeaways
- RON requires multi-factor identity verification
- Credential analysis verifies authenticity of ID
- Identity proofing uses knowledge-based authentication or other approved methods
- ID must be current or expired within 3 years
- Third-party providers perform credential analysis and identity proofing
RON Identity Verification
Because the signer is not physically present during a Remote Online Notarization, Ohio law requires enhanced identity verification procedures. These go beyond what's required for traditional notarizations.
Multi-Factor Verification
RON identity verification consists of multiple components:
| Component | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Credential Analysis | Verifies the ID document is authentic |
| Identity Proofing | Confirms the person matches the ID |
| Visual Verification | Notary compares person to ID photo |
Credential Analysis
What Is Credential Analysis?
Credential analysis is an automated process that:
- Examines the identification document
- Verifies security features (holograms, watermarks, etc.)
- Confirms the ID is not fraudulent or altered
- Checks that the ID is not expired beyond allowed limits
Who Performs Credential Analysis?
A reputable third-party provider must perform credential analysis. This is typically integrated into the RON platform and includes:
| Check | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Visual security features | Detect fake IDs |
| Document integrity | Check for alterations |
| Format verification | Matches expected ID format |
| Expiration check | Confirm within 3-year limit |
Acceptable IDs for RON
Same as traditional notarization:
- U.S. passport
- Driver's license (any U.S. state)
- Government-issued ID with photo and signature
- Must be current or expired not more than 3 years
Identity Proofing
What Is Identity Proofing?
Identity proofing confirms that the person appearing is actually the person identified on the ID. This is typically done through knowledge-based authentication (KBA) or other approved methods.
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
KBA involves asking the signer questions that only they should know:
| KBA Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Questions drawn from | Public and proprietary databases |
| Topics | Address history, financial history, etc. |
| Number of questions | Typically 4-5 questions |
| Passing threshold | Must answer minimum correctly |
| Time limit | Limited time to answer |
Example KBA Questions
- "Which of these addresses have you lived at?"
- "Which of these vehicles have you owned?"
- "In what year did you open an account with [bank name]?"
Other Approved Methods
The Secretary of State may approve alternative identity proofing methods, such as:
- Biometric verification
- Trusted referee validation
- Advanced algorithmic analysis
Third-Party Provider Requirements
Ohio law requires that credential analysis and identity proofing be performed by providers who have demonstrated:
| Requirement | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Reputable | Established, reliable provider |
| Reasonable evidence | Can demonstrate compliance capability |
| Meets Ohio standards | Follows Ohio Administrative Code |
Visual Verification by Notary
Even with automated systems, the notary must:
| Task | Purpose |
|---|---|
| View the signer | Via two-way video |
| Compare to ID photo | Reasonable likeness |
| Ask clarifying questions | If identity is uncertain |
| Decline if not satisfied | Notary has final discretion |
What If Verification Fails?
| Failure Point | Result |
|---|---|
| Credential analysis fails | Cannot proceed with RON |
| Identity proofing fails | Cannot proceed with RON |
| Notary not satisfied | Notary may decline |
Note: Under the 2025 law, notaries may charge the technology fee even if the session fails due to verification issues.
Credible Witnesses in RON
For RON, a credible witness may still be used if:
- The witness appears via the same video technology
- The witness meets Ohio's credible witness requirements
- The witness takes an oath via video
- Proper documentation is maintained
On the Exam
Key RON identity verification points:
- Two processes: Credential analysis AND identity proofing
- KBA: Knowledge-based authentication is primary method
- Third party: Must use reputable third-party providers
- Visual verification: Notary still compares person to ID
- May decline: Notary has discretion to refuse
What is "credential analysis" in Remote Online Notarization?
What is the primary method of identity proofing in Ohio RON?