Ohio Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
RON EnactedEffective September 18, 2019
Quick Facts
- Status
- RON Enacted
- Year Enacted
- 2019
- Statute
- Ohio Rev. Code § 147.60 et seq.
- Bill Number
- SB 263
Ohio RON Law Overview
In 2019, Ohio enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (SB 263) under Ohio Rev. Code § 147.60 et seq.. The law took effect on September 18, 2019. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in Ohio to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. Ohio's RON framework establishes requirements for identity verification, electronic journaling, and tamper-evident technology to ensure the integrity of every online notarization.
Legal Citations
Ohio RON Requirements
Ohio 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 5 years.
- Audio-video required
- Yes
- Tamper-evident seal
- Required
- Electronic journal
- Required
- Recording retention
- 5 years
- Credential analysis
- Required
- KBA required
- Yes
- Commissioned in state
- Required
- RON endorsement
- Required
- Bond amount
- $10,000
- Training hours
- 3 hrs
Interstate Recognition
Ohio 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 Ohio, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in Ohio?
Yes, Ohio has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2019 under Ohio Rev. Code § 147.60 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Ohio-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Ohio?
Ohio 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 Ohio?
Yes, Ohio 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 Ohio?
Ohio 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 5 years.
Does Ohio accept out-of-state RON?
Ohio 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 Ohio?
Ohio requires RON notaries to maintain a surety bond of $10,000. 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.