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Key Takeaways

  • The entire RON session must be recorded with audio and video
  • Recordings must be retained for at least 10 years
  • The notary certificate must state the notarization was performed using communication technology
  • RON sessions must be journaled with additional details
  • The notary may delegate recording storage to a third party
Last updated: January 2026

RON Procedures and Recording Requirements

Pennsylvania RON has specific procedural requirements that differ from traditional notarization, particularly regarding recording and documentation.

Mandatory Recording Requirement

RequirementDetail
What to recordEntire RON session
FormatAudio AND video
Start pointBeginning of identity verification
End pointCompletion of notarial act
QualityClear enough to identify participants

Recording Content

The recording must capture:

ElementWhy Required
Identity verificationEvidence signer was verified
Document reviewSigner saw the document
Oath/affirmation (if applicable)Verbal ceremony performed
SignatureElectronic signature applied
Notary's actionsProcedures followed
Verbal communicationsSigner's statements

Recording Retention

RequirementSpecification
Minimum retention10 years after creation
AlternativeOther period established by Department
StorageSecure, accessible
FormatPlayable, not corrupted

Who Retains Recordings

OptionDetail
NotaryMay retain personally
Third partyMay delegate storage to RON platform or repository
EmployerIf notary employed, employer may retain
ResponsibilityNotary remains responsible regardless

RON Certificate Requirements

The notarial certificate for RON must include a statement that the notarization was performed "by means of communication technology."

Sample RON Certificate Addition

"This notarial act involved a remotely located individual who appeared before me by means of communication technology."

Electronic Seal Requirements

RequirementSpecification
Contains same info as stampPA, Notary Seal, name, county, expiration
Tamper-evidentCannot be altered
Unique to notaryLinked to notary's credentials
Attached securelyTo electronic document

RON Journal Entries

In addition to standard journal entries, RON entries must include:

Additional EntryPurpose
Notation of remote methodDistinguish from in-person
Identity verification methodHow signer was identified
Technology usedPlatform name
Recording storage locationWhere retained

RON Procedure Steps

Step 1: Establish Connection

  • Signer connects via approved platform
  • Verify audio and video quality
  • Confirm signer can see/hear you

Step 2: Verify Identity

  • Credential analysis (ID via camera)
  • Knowledge-based authentication (KBA)
  • OR personal knowledge/credible witness

Step 3: Review Document

  • Display document on screen
  • Allow signer to review
  • Answer questions about procedure (not content)

Step 4: Complete Notarial Act

  • Administer oath if required
  • Signer applies electronic signature
  • Observe signing in real-time

Step 5: Apply Seal and Sign

  • Notary applies electronic seal
  • Notary signs certificate
  • Add communication technology statement

Step 6: Complete Record-Keeping

  • Ensure recording is saved
  • Make journal entry
  • Store documents securely

Prohibited Documents for RON

DocumentRON Permitted?
Vehicle titlesNO
PA title transfersNO
Documents requiring wet inkNO

On the Exam

  • Recording required: Audio AND video
  • Retention: 10 years minimum
  • Certificate statement: "by means of communication technology"
  • Journal: Additional RON-specific entries
  • Vehicle titles: Cannot be done via RON
Test Your Knowledge

How long must RON recordings be retained?

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Test Your Knowledge

What must be added to the notarial certificate for a RON?

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Test Your Knowledge

Which document CANNOT be notarized through RON in Pennsylvania?

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