Oregon Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective December 31, 2021

Quick Facts

Status: RON Enacted
Year Enacted: 2021
Statute: Or. Rev. Stat. § 194.505 et seq.
Bill Number: HB 3293

Oregon RON Law Overview

In 2021, Oregon enacted its RON statute (HB 3293) under Or. Rev. Stat. § 194.505 et seq., joining the growing number of states that permit fully remote notarizations. The law took effect on December 31, 2021. The law requires notaries to use approved technology platforms that support real-time audio-video communication, credential analysis, and tamper-evident sealing. Oregon's approach to RON balances accessibility with security, establishing clear standards for identity verification while enabling notarizations to occur without geographic limitations.

Legal Citations

Statute

Or. Rev. Stat. § 194.505 et seq.

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Oregon RON Requirements

Oregon 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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2021 under Or. Rev. Stat. § 194.505 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Oregon-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Oregon?

Oregon 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 Oregon?

Yes, Oregon 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 Oregon?

Oregon 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 Oregon accept out-of-state RON?

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