Wisconsin Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective April 30, 2020

Quick Facts

Status: RON Enacted
Year Enacted: 2019
Statute: Wis. Stat. § 140.01 et seq.
Bill Number: AB 293

Wisconsin RON Law Overview

In 2019, Wisconsin enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (AB 293) under Wis. Stat. § 140.01 et seq.. The law took effect on April 30, 2020. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in Wisconsin to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. Wisconsin'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

Wis. Stat. § 140.01 et seq.

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Wisconsin RON Requirements

Wisconsin 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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in Wisconsin?

Yes, Wisconsin has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2019 under Wis. Stat. § 140.01 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Wisconsin-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?

Yes, Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?

Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin accept out-of-state RON?

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