New Jersey Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective March 21, 2022

Quick Facts

Status
RON Enacted
Year Enacted
2021
Statute
N.J. Stat. § 52:7-10.1 et seq.
Bill Number
A 4244

New Jersey RON Law Overview

Remote online notarization became permanently authorized in New Jersey when the legislature passed legislation in 2021 (A 4244) under N.J. Stat. § 52:7-10.1 et seq.. The law took effect on March 21, 2022. New Jersey'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.

Legal Citations

New Jersey RON Requirements

Under New Jersey 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

Interstate Recognition

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in New Jersey?

Yes, New Jersey has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2021 under N.J. Stat. § 52:7-10.1 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for New Jersey-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in New Jersey?

New Jersey 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 New Jersey?

Yes, New Jersey 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 New Jersey?

New Jersey 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 New Jersey accept out-of-state RON?

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