Pennsylvania Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
RON EnactedEffective October 28, 2020
Quick Facts
- Status
- RON Enacted
- Year Enacted
- 2020
- Statute
- 57 Pa.C.S. § 306 et seq.
- Bill Number
- SB 1097
Pennsylvania RON Law Overview
In 2020, Pennsylvania enacted its RON statute (SB 1097) under 57 Pa.C.S. § 306 et seq., joining the growing number of states that permit fully remote notarizations. The law took effect on October 28, 2020. The law requires notaries to use approved technology platforms that support real-time audio-video communication, credential analysis, and tamper-evident sealing. Pennsylvania's approach to RON balances accessibility with security, establishing clear standards for identity verification while enabling notarizations to occur without geographic limitations.
Pennsylvania RON Requirements
Pennsylvania's RON requirements mandate a live audio-video session for every remote notarization. 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 state requires notaries to maintain secure electronic journals and apply tamper-evident technology to ensure document integrity after signing. 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
- $10,000
- Training hours
- 3 hrs
Interstate Recognition
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2020 under 57 Pa.C.S. § 306 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Pennsylvania-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania accept out-of-state RON?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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.