Key Takeaways
- RON requires at least two different identity proofing methods
- Common methods include credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication (KBA)
- Personal knowledge of the signer is also acceptable for RON
- A credible witness may appear with the notary or signer during RON
- All identity verification must occur during the audio-video session
Last updated: January 2026
RON Identity Verification
Identity verification for RON has additional requirements beyond traditional notarization because the signer is not physically present.
Identity Verification Methods for RON
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal knowledge | Notary personally knows the signer |
| Credible witness | Witness appears with notary or signer |
| Multi-factor verification | At least TWO identity proofing methods |
Multi-Factor Verification Requirements
When personal knowledge or credible witness is not used, RON requires at least TWO different identity proofing methods:
| Method Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Credential analysis | ID verification via camera |
| Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) | Personal questions |
| Biometric verification | Facial recognition |
| Device authentication | Known device/location |
Credential Analysis
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Document presented | Government-issued photo ID |
| Verification | Platform analyzes document via camera |
| Checks performed | Authenticity, tampering, expiration |
| Photo comparison | Matches person on video |
The RON platform captures and analyzes the ID presented on camera to verify authenticity.
Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Questions | Personal history questions |
| Source | Third-party databases |
| Number of questions | Typically 4-5 |
| Time limit | Usually 2 minutes |
| Examples | Previous addresses, vehicle info, loan details |
KBA questions are things only the true person would likely know based on their personal history.
Sample KBA Questions
| Question Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Addresses | "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" |
| Vehicles | "What color is your 2019 vehicle?" |
| Loans | "Which lender holds your mortgage?" |
| Employment | "Which company did you work for in 2018?" |
Credible Witness in RON
A credible witness may be used in RON sessions:
| Scenario | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Witness with notary | Witness physically with notary, signer remote |
| Witness with signer | Witness physically with signer, notary remote |
| Both remote | Each appears on video from separate locations |
Credible Witness Requirements (RON)
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Must personally know signer | Same as traditional |
| Must take oath | Via video communication |
| No beneficial interest | Same as traditional |
| Identity verified | Notary verifies witness identity |
Failed Identity Verification
| Scenario | Action |
|---|---|
| KBA failure | Cannot proceed with RON |
| Credential rejection | Cannot proceed with RON |
| Mismatched photo | Cannot proceed with RON |
| Resolution | Suggest in-person notarization |
Recording Identity Verification
The audio-video recording must capture:
| Captured Element | Purpose |
|---|---|
| ID presentation | Evidence of ID shown |
| KBA process | Verification occurred |
| Signer's responses | Confirmation of identity |
| Notary's verification | Process followed |
On the Exam
- Multi-factor required: At least TWO methods
- Common methods: Credential analysis + KBA
- Personal knowledge: Still acceptable for RON
- Credible witness: May appear with notary or signer
- Recording: Must capture identity verification
Test Your Knowledge
How many identity proofing methods are required for RON when personal knowledge is not used?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)?
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Test Your Knowledge
Can a credible witness be used in a RON session?
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D