Florida Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
RON EnactedEffective December 31, 2019
Quick Facts
- Status
- RON Enacted
- Year Enacted
- 2019
- Statute
- Fla. Stat. § 117.201 et seq.
- Bill Number
- HB 409
Florida RON Law Overview
Remote online notarization became permanently authorized in Florida when the legislature passed legislation in 2019 (HB 409) under Fla. Stat. § 117.201 et seq.. The law took effect on December 31, 2019. Florida's RON law allows commissioned notaries to use approved audio-video technology platforms to notarize documents for signers located anywhere, subject to compliance with identity verification protocols and electronic record-keeping requirements established by the statute.
Florida RON Requirements
Florida requires RON sessions to be conducted over a live, two-way audio-video connection. Credential analysis of a government-issued photo ID is required to verify the signer's identity. The signer must successfully complete knowledge-based authentication (KBA), answering personal questions generated from public records and credit data to confirm their identity. Notaries must maintain an electronic journal of all remote notarizations and apply tamper-evident technology to completed documents. Audio-video recordings of each RON session must be retained for at least 10 years.
- Audio-video required
- Yes
- Tamper-evident seal
- Required
- Electronic journal
- Required
- Recording retention
- 10 years
- Credential analysis
- Required
- KBA required
- Yes
- Commissioned in state
- Required
- RON endorsement
- Required
- Bond amount
- $25,000
- Training hours
- 2 hrs
Interstate Recognition
Florida requires RON to be performed by a Florida-commissioned notary for documents to be recorded in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in Florida?
Yes, Florida has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2019 under Fla. Stat. § 117.201 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Florida-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Florida?
Florida requires credential analysis of a government-issued photo ID and knowledge-based authentication (KBA) for all remote online notarizations. The signer must correctly answer personal questions generated from authoritative data sources.
Do I need a special endorsement to perform RON in Florida?
Yes, Florida requires notaries to obtain a RON endorsement or registration in addition to their standard notary commission before performing remote online notarizations. Notaries must complete 2 hours of approved RON training.
What technology is required for RON in Florida?
Florida requires RON sessions to use real-time two-way audio-video communication. Documents must be sealed with tamper-evident technology. An electronic journal must be maintained for all remote notarizations. Session recordings must be retained for 10 years.
Does Florida accept out-of-state RON?
Florida currently requires that RON for documents to be recorded in the state be performed by a Florida-commissioned notary. Out-of-state RON may not be accepted for recording purposes.
What is the bond requirement for RON notaries in Florida?
Florida requires RON notaries to maintain a surety bond of $25,000. This bond protects the public against errors or misconduct during remote notarizations and is in addition to any bond required for a standard notary commission.
Florida was one of the early adopters of permanent RON legislation. Requires notaries to complete an approved RON course.