Illinois Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
RON EnactedEffective December 31, 2021
Quick Facts
- Status
- RON Enacted
- Year Enacted
- 2021
- Statute
- 5 ILCS 312/6-101 et seq.
- Bill Number
- SB 2664
Illinois RON Law Overview
In 2021, Illinois enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (SB 2664) under 5 ILCS 312/6-101 et seq.. The law took effect on December 31, 2021. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in Illinois to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. Illinois's RON framework establishes requirements for identity verification, electronic journaling, and tamper-evident technology to ensure the integrity of every online notarization.
Legal Citations
Illinois RON Requirements
Under Illinois law, every remote online notarization must take place via real-time audio-video communication between the notary and the signer. 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. The notary is required to keep an electronic journal documenting each transaction and to use tamper-evident sealing on all notarized 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
- $5,000
Interstate Recognition
Illinois generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states that have enacted equivalent RON legislation. Documents notarized via RON in another state may be accepted for recording and legal purposes in Illinois, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2021 under 5 ILCS 312/6-101 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Illinois-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Illinois?
Illinois 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 Illinois?
Yes, Illinois requires notaries to obtain a RON endorsement or registration in addition to their standard notary commission before performing remote online notarizations.
What technology is required for RON in Illinois?
Illinois 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 Illinois accept out-of-state RON?
Illinois generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states with equivalent RON laws. However, specific recording offices may have additional requirements.
What is the bond requirement for RON notaries in Illinois?
Illinois requires RON notaries to maintain a surety bond of $5,000. 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.