Looking to add remote notarization to your Pennsylvania notary toolkit? You've landed in the right place. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process of becoming a Remote Online Notary (RON) in PA so you can enjoy this career with the right foundation.
The Application Process: Your Path to Becoming a PA Remote Online Notary
The Pennsylvania Department of State has established a straightforward process for notaries who want to add remote capabilities to their services. Here's what the journey looks like:
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Hold an existing commission as a traditional Notary Public.
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Complete the Electronic Notary Public Application.
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Submit the application to the Department of State's Bureau of Elections and Notaries.
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Receive an email from the Bureau notifying you of their approval.
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Log onto the Department of State's website and choose your provider.
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The state will inform the vendor.
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Work with the vendor for setup and payment.
Before applying for remote online authorization, you must have already been commissioned as a Pennsylvania notary public. This means you've already met the base qualifications, including being at least 18 years old, a Pennsylvania resident or working in PA, and having no felony convictions or notary-related offenses on your record.
Fortunately, the remote notary application itself is completely free. You'll only pay fees when selecting your technology vendor. Most vendors charge a monthly subscription fee plus a per-notarization fee, though pricing structures vary.
How Remote Notarizations Work in Pennsylvania
Remote online notarization completely changes how you can execute notarial acts. Instead of requiring signers to appear physically before you, remote notarization lets you connect with them via audiovisual technology from anywhere.
During a remote session, you'll verify the signer's identity through knowledge-based authentication questions and credential analysis of their ID document. The entire session is recorded and stored securely. This creates a strong audit trail, often providing more security than traditional notarizations.
The flexibility of remote notarization opens doors for both notaries and clients. Clients with mobility issues can access notary services without leaving home. Busy professionals can complete time-sensitive documents without rearranging their schedules. For notaries, it means expanding your business beyond geographical limitations and offering services at times that work for your lifestyle.
Training Requirements for Pennsylvania RONs
Unlike some states, Pennsylvania does not mandate specific training or an exam for becoming a remote online notary. The state assumes that as a commissioned notary public, you already possess the foundational knowledge needed.
However, taking courses on remote notarization is still a fantastic strategy for success. Remote notarization involves new technology, different procedures for verifying identity, and specific record-keeping requirements. A good training course can help you navigate these differences with confidence.
Many technology vendors offer training specific to their platforms. These sessions teach you how to use their software and follow proper procedures for remote notarizations. Some professional associations also provide remote notarization courses that cover both legal requirements and best practices.
The law regarding powers of attorney, mortgage documents, and deeds doesn't change with remote notarization, but the practical execution does. Learning these nuances will help you avoid mistakes that could invalidate a notarial act.
Key Requirements and Timeframes
Unlike traditional notary commissions, you don't need a new surety bond to become a remote online notary in Pennsylvania. Your existing notary bond covers both in-person and remote notarizations.
The approval process for remote authorization typically takes a few business days after submitting your application. However, the complete setup process — including selecting a vendor and getting your electronic seal and digital certificate — can take up to 4 weeks.
Remember that your remote notary authorization ends when your traditional notary public commission expires. You'll need to renew both simultaneously to continue offering remote services without interruption.
The Pennsylvania Department of State must approve your technology vendor. Several vendors meet Pennsylvania's security, identity verification, and document handling requirements. You'll want to compare their features, user interfaces, and pricing structures to find the best fit for your practice.
Become a Remote Online Notary in Pennsylvania!
Adding remote capabilities to your notary practice creates significant advantages in today's digital world. You'll dramatically increase the accessibility of your services, reaching clients who can't easily travel to in-person appointments. Remote notarization allows you to expand your business hours without sacrificing your personal time. Many remote notaries offer evening and weekend appointments from the comfort of their homes, capturing clients who need services outside traditional business hours.
Remote capabilities can make you a more valuable partner for notaries working with real estate transactions, insurance documentation, or legal practices. You'll be able to handle urgent document needs quickly, even when clients are traveling or living in different areas.
We're here to support your journey into notarization with our comprehensive PA notary courses and full collection of products. From digital certificates to secure storage solutions, our team can help you build a professional, compliant remote notary practice that serves Pennsylvanians with excellence.