Electronic Notarization in California: Current Law and the RON Timeline
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Key Takeaways
- California’s SB 696 (2023) authorizes remote online notarization but the system is not yet operational
- Currently, California notaries cannot perform RON. All notarizations require physical personal appearance
- Government Code sections 8232 through 8232.4 (recognition of notarial acts) became effective January 1, 2024
- Full RON authority activates when the Secretary of State completes the Notary Automation Project 2.0, or by January 1, 2030, whichever comes first
What Is Legal Right Now
As of 2026, California notaries still cannot perform remote online notarization. Every notarization requires the signer to physically appear before you in person. This has not changed despite SB 696 passing in 2023.
What SB 696 did change is how California recognizes out-of-state notarizations. Government Code sections 8232 through 8232.4, which took effect January 1, 2024, establish rules for recognizing notarial acts performed in other states and jurisdictions. If a notary commissioned in a RON state (such as Virginia or Florida) performs a remote notarization that is valid under that state’s laws, California will generally recognize it.
Civil Code sections 1182 and 1183, which govern who may acknowledge instruments within and outside the United States, also became operative January 1, 2024. These provisions update the recognition framework to accommodate electronic and remote notarizations performed elsewhere.
The SB 696 Timeline
SB 696 rolled out in stages:
| Provision | Status | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition of out-of-state notarial acts (GC 8232-8232.4) | Active | January 1, 2024 |
| Updated acknowledgment frameworks (CC 1182, 1183) | Active | January 1, 2024 |
| Security requirements for RON (GC 8231.18) | Active | January 1, 2025 |
| Full RON authority for CA notaries | Not yet active | When SOS completes project, or January 1, 2030 |
What Changes When RON Goes Live
When the Notary Automation Project 2.0 is complete, approved California notaries will be able to perform notarizations using audio-video communication and approved online platforms. The signer will not need to be in the same room as the notary.
RON notaries will need additional training and authorization from the Secretary of State beyond the standard notary commission. Identity verification will involve credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication questions. The notary will use an electronic seal and electronic signature. An audio-video recording of the entire RON session must be retained.
What Has Not Changed
Until the RON system is fully operational, your obligations remain exactly as they were before SB 696. The signer must physically appear. You must verify identity with an acceptable ID or credible witnesses. You must use your physical seal. You must record the notarization in your physical journal. Nothing about your day-to-day notary practice has changed.
If someone asks you to notarize a document over Zoom or asks you to accept a photo of their ID sent by email, the answer is still no. That is not legal in California yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I perform a remote online notarization in California right now?
No. As of 2026, California notaries cannot perform RON. The Secretary of State has not yet completed the Notary Automation Project 2.0, which is a prerequisite. All notarizations require in-person appearance.
Does California recognize out-of-state RON notarizations?
Yes, under Government Code sections 8232 through 8232.4. If a Virginia notary performs a valid RON under Virginia law, California will recognize that notarization for documents used in California.
When will California RON be available?
The law sets a deadline of January 1, 2030, for the Secretary of State to have the system operational. It could launch sooner if the Notary Automation Project 2.0 is completed early. Watch the Secretary of State’s website for updates.
Will I need a new commission to perform RON?
You will need additional authorization from the Secretary of State, which may include additional training or testing. Your existing notary commission is the foundation, but RON requires specific authorization on top of it.
Can I use an electronic seal for regular notarizations?
No. For traditional in-person notarizations, California requires a physical ink stamp seal that meets the specifications in Government Code section 8207. Electronic seals are only for RON transactions, which are not yet available.
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