Maine Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective October 24, 2023

Quick Facts

Status: RON Enacted
Year Enacted: 2023
Statute: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 4, § 1011 et seq.
Bill Number: HP 820

Maine RON Law Overview

In 2023, Maine enacted comprehensive RON legislation (HP 820) that authorizes remote online notarization under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 4, § 1011 et seq.. The law took effect on October 24, 2023. Under this framework, Maine-commissioned notaries can conduct notarizations via secure audio-video communication without requiring the signer's physical presence. The law sets standards for identity proofing through credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication, ensuring remote notarizations carry the same legal weight as traditional in-person notarizations.

Legal Citations

Statute

Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 4, § 1011 et seq.

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Maine RON Requirements

Maine 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

Interstate Recognition

Maine 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 Maine, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in Maine?

Yes, Maine has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2023 under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 4, § 1011 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Maine-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Maine?

Maine 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 Maine?

Yes, Maine 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 Maine?

Maine 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 Maine accept out-of-state RON?

Maine generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states with equivalent RON laws. However, specific recording offices may have additional requirements.