California Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
Enacted, Not Yet in UseLast verified September 2026
Can you notarize online in California? Yes, with a notary commissioned in another state.
Notaron connects you with a notary commissioned in a state that authorizes remote online notarization, 24/7. How California recognizes out-of-state notarizations
Available to signers in all 50 states. Live, commissioned notaries 24/7.
Quick Facts
- Status
- Enacted, Not Yet in Use
- Year Enacted
- 2023
- Statute
- Cal. Gov. Code §§ 8231–8231.20 (Online Notarization Act), operative per Civ. Code § 1181.1; recognition: Gov. Code §§ 8232–8232.4
- Bill Number
- SB 696 (Stats. 2023, ch. 291)
California RON Law Overview
California enacted online notarization in 2023 (SB 696), but California notaries may not perform it until the Secretary of State certifies its technology project or January 1, 2030, whichever is earlier; Californians can use notaries commissioned in other states meanwhile.
Key details for California
Enacted by SB 696 (Stats. 2023, ch. 291). Signer location: In California, elsewhere in the U.S., or outside the U.S. if the act is not prohibited where the principal is located (once operative). The notary must be physically located in the state during the act.
Interstate Recognition
California recognizes a notarial act performed under the law of another state (Cal. Gov. Code § 8232.1 (added by SB 696, operative 2024-01-01); Cal. Civ. Code § 1182).
Online Notary Availability in California
Notaron is available 24/7 across California. See location-specific guides for major California cities:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in California?
Yes, with a notary commissioned in a state that authorizes it. California enacted online notarization in 2023 (SB 696), but California notaries may not perform it until the Secretary of State certifies its technology project or January 1, 2030, whichever is earlier; Californians can use notaries commissioned in other states meanwhile.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in California?
California sets no identity rules for remote online notarization of its own yet, because its notaries cannot currently perform full RON. When you notarize online from California, identity verification follows the law of the state where your notary is commissioned.
Do I need a special endorsement to perform RON in California?
Not currently: California notaries cannot yet perform full remote online notarization, so there is no California RON endorsement in use.
What technology is required for RON in California?
California sets no RON technology rules of its own yet. When you notarize online from California, the session follows the technology standards of the state where your notary is commissioned.
Does California accept out-of-state RON?
California recognizes a notarial act performed under the law of another state (Cal. Gov. Code § 8232.1 (added by SB 696, operative 2024-01-01); Cal. Civ. Code § 1182).