How do I become a remote notary in CA?

Becoming a remote online notary (RON) in California involves a series of specific steps, primarily focusing on leveraging digital technology while adhering to state regulations. While California has been slower to adopt permanent statewide RON legislation compared to other states, temporary measures and specific requirements indicate the pathway for those looking to notarize documents remotely.

To become a remote online notary in California, you'll generally need to fulfill the following key requirements:

Essential Steps to Becoming a California Remote Notary

The journey to becoming a remote online notary public in California requires a blend of traditional notary qualifications and digital readiness.

1. Be a Commissioned Notary Public in Your State
   Before you can even consider remote notarization, you must first be a duly commissioned notary public in California. This foundational step involves meeting the state's eligibility requirements, completing mandatory education, passing an exam, and submitting an application.

   • Action: Ensure your California Notary Public commission is active and in good standing. You can find information on becoming a traditional notary through the California Secretary of State's website.

2. Complete Any Required RON Training or Exam
   Remote online notarization introduces new technological and procedural elements. States typically require specific training or an additional exam to ensure notaries understand the nuances of performing notarizations remotely, including identity verification, secure video conferencing, and digital record-keeping.

   • Practical Insight: Look for approved training programs once California's permanent RON framework is fully established. These programs will cover the legal and technical aspects unique to remote notarization.

3. Contract with a RON Technology Provider
   Remote online notarizations are conducted through secure, approved platforms. These technology providers offer the necessary tools for identity verification, secure audio-visual communication, digital signing, and electronic journal keeping.

   • Example: Platforms often provide features like multi-factor authentication, secure document sharing, and a tamper-evident audit trail for each notarization. Choosing a reputable provider that complies with future California RON standards will be crucial.

4. Have a Secure Digital Signature and Electronic Notary Seal
   Unlike traditional wet ink signatures and physical seals, remote notarization requires their digital equivalents. A secure digital signature ensures the integrity and authenticity of the notary's electronic signature, while an electronic notary seal serves as the digital representation of your official seal.

   • Solution: Your chosen RON technology provider will often assist you in obtaining or integrating a compliant digital signature and electronic notary seal that meets state requirements for security and tamper-evidence.

5. Maintain a Journal of All Remote Notarizations
   Just like traditional notarizations, remote online notarizations require meticulous record-keeping. You must maintain an electronic journal that captures all the details of each remote notarization, including information about the signers, the documents notarized, and the methods of identity verification used.

   • Best Practice: The RON technology platform you utilize should have integrated features for maintaining a secure, tamper-evident electronic journal that can be readily accessed and submitted if required by state authorities.

Summary of Remote Notary Requirements

The following table summarizes the core components for becoming a remote online notary in California:

Staying informed about the latest legislative developments in California regarding remote online notarization is crucial, as requirements can evolve.