North Carolina Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective June 30, 2023

Quick Facts

Status: RON Enacted
Year Enacted: 2023
Statute: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 10B-200 et seq.
Bill Number: HB 382

North Carolina RON Law Overview

In 2023, North Carolina enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (HB 382) under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 10B-200 et seq.. The law took effect on June 30, 2023. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in North Carolina to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. North Carolina's RON framework establishes requirements for identity verification, electronic journaling, and tamper-evident technology to ensure the integrity of every online notarization.

Legal Citations

Statute

N.C. Gen. Stat. § 10B-200 et seq.

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North Carolina RON Requirements

North Carolina 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: 3 hrs

Interstate Recognition

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in North Carolina?

Yes, North Carolina has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2023 under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 10B-200 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for North Carolina-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in North Carolina?

North Carolina 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 North Carolina?

Yes, North Carolina requires notaries to obtain a RON endorsement or registration in addition to their standard notary commission before performing remote online notarizations. Notaries must complete 3 hours of approved RON training.

What technology is required for RON in North Carolina?

North Carolina 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 North Carolina accept out-of-state RON?

North Carolina 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 North Carolina?

North Carolina 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.