West Virginia Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws
RON EnactedEffective June 8, 2021
Quick Facts
- Status
- RON Enacted
- Year Enacted
- 2021
- Statute
- W. Va. Code § 39-4-37 et seq.
- Bill Number
- SB 529
West Virginia RON Law Overview
In 2021, West Virginia enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (SB 529) under W. Va. Code § 39-4-37 et seq.. The law took effect on June 8, 2021. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in West Virginia to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. West Virginia's RON framework establishes requirements for identity verification, electronic journaling, and tamper-evident technology to ensure the integrity of every online notarization.
Legal Citations
West Virginia RON Requirements
West Virginia 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
West Virginia 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 West Virginia, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote online notarization legal in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2021 under W. Va. Code § 39-4-37 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for West Virginia-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.
What are the identity verification requirements for RON in West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia accept out-of-state RON?
West Virginia generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states with equivalent RON laws. However, specific recording offices may have additional requirements.