The Evolution of Notarization: Remote Online Notarization and Its Impact on California Notaries

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California does not currently allow remote online notarization (RON). Senate Bill 696, signed by Governor Newsom, authorizes RON but with a delayed start date of January 1, 2030. Here is what California notaries need to know.

Understanding RON

Remote online notarization lets a notary and signer meet over live video instead of in person. The notary verifies the signer’s identity using digital credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication, then watches the signer apply an electronic signature. The notary applies their own electronic seal and signature to complete the act.

Identity verification for RON typically works in two steps. First, the signer uploads a photo of their government ID. Software checks the ID for tampering, expiration, and consistency. Second, the signer answers a series of knowledge-based authentication (KBA) questions pulled from public records (previous addresses, vehicle loans, etc.). The signer must answer correctly within a time limit. Some platforms also use biometric facial matching.

This differs from traditional notarization, where both parties must be physically present in the same room and identity is verified with a physical ID document.

California’s RON Timeline

1. SB 696 signed: The bill became law but includes a delayed implementation.
2. Effective date: January 1, 2030. No RON can be performed in California before this date.
3. Regulations pending: The Secretary of State will issue rules before the start date covering registration, technology requirements, and record-keeping.

California notaries cannot perform RON today. If someone offers “online notarization” for California documents right now, it is not a California-compliant notarization. Some companies offer RON through notaries commissioned in other states (see below), but a California notary cannot do it under their California commission.

What SB 696 Will Require

• Registration with the California Secretary of State as an online notary
• Use of state-approved video conferencing and identity verification technology
• Electronic journal and audio/video recording of each RON session
• Compliance with security protocols to prevent fraud
• Likely an additional training course or certification specific to RON

The SOS has not yet published the final rules. Expect specifics on approved technology vendors, journal retention requirements (RON journals are electronic), and fee structures around 2028 or 2029 as the implementation date approaches.

How Other States Compare

Over 40 states have already authorized RON. A few examples:

• Virginia: RON available since 2012. One of the earliest adopters.
• Texas: RON available since 2018.
• Florida: RON available since 2019.
• Nevada: RON available since 2021.

California’s 2030 start date puts it behind most of the country. For a full breakdown of which states allow RON, see our RON state guide on Notary Training School.

Out-of-State Notaries and California

Yes, in some cases. A notary commissioned in a RON state can notarize documents for signers located anywhere, including California. The notarization is governed by the notary’s commissioning state, not the signer’s location.

This means California notaries face competition from out-of-state RON notaries until 2030. Clients who want online notarization may go elsewhere. Signing services like Snapdocs and Notarize already handle RON transactions through notaries in authorized states.

What RON Means for Your Business

RON will not replace in-person notarization entirely. Real estate closings, hospital visits, and jail signings will still need a notary physically present. But RON will capture a growing share of routine notarizations: power of attorney forms, affidavits, consent letters, and similar documents that do not require a physical presence.

Signing agents who add RON to their services can accept appointments nationwide rather than being limited to their local area. A California notary with RON authorization could notarize for a signer in New York, provided the California RON rules allow it. That opens up a much larger client base.

Expect RON platforms to charge monthly or per-transaction fees. Current platforms charge $10 to $25 per notarization or $20 to $50 per month for a subscription. You will need a reliable internet connection, a webcam, and comfort with the technology.

What California Notaries Should Do Now

1. Stay current on SOS rulemaking. Follow the Secretary of State’s notary division for updates.
2. Learn the technology. Familiarize yourself with video conferencing, electronic signatures, and digital identity verification.
3. Watch for training requirements. California will likely require additional education for RON authorization.
4. Continue performing in-person notarizations. That is still the only legal method in California until 2030.
5. Consider getting a commission in a state that already allows RON if you want to start offering online notarization sooner. Some notaries hold commissions in multiple states for this reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I perform remote online notarization in California right now?

No. RON is not legal in California until January 1, 2030. Any online notarization offered before that date is not a valid California notarization.

What is Senate Bill 696?

SB 696 is the California law that authorizes remote online notarization, with implementation delayed until January 1, 2030.

Will I need a special license to perform RON?

Yes. You will need to register with the Secretary of State as an online notary, in addition to your regular commission.

Can an out-of-state notary notarize my California document online?

In some cases, yes. If the notary is commissioned in a state that allows RON, they can notarize for signers located in California. The rules depend on the notary’s commissioning state.

How should I prepare for RON?

Watch for SOS rulemaking announcements, learn about digital identity verification and electronic signatures, and plan to complete any required training before 2030.

Will RON replace in-person notarization?

No. Real estate closings, hospital visits, and jail signings will still need physical presence. RON will handle routine documents but not every situation.