Effective June 30, 2022, Rhode Island Notaries can apply to perform remote online notarizations (RONs). If you want to become an RI remote Notary, take the following steps:
- Hold a traditional Notary Public commission.
- Read the updated Standards of Conduct.
- Contact one of the approved solution providers listed below and complete their training.
- Buy a digital stamp and signature.
- Complete the Notary Public Information Update form on the RI Department of State's website.
- Submit this form, a copy of your digital stamp, and digital signature to register for remote notarizations.
- Await your confirmation email from the RI Department of State.
In This Guide: Rhode Island RON Requirements | About RON in Rhode Island | Additional FAQs
Requirements to be a Remote Notary in Rhode Island
Before you can register to perform remote online notarizations in Rhode Island, you must first meet the state's requirement of holding a traditional Notary Public commission. To qualify for a Notary commission in Rhode Island, you must be at least 18 years old, be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States, be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in Rhode Island, and be able to read and write English.
You must demonstrate knowledge of Notary Public powers and duties and you must not be disqualified to receive a commission under §42-30.1-16 .
What are the training requirements to work as an online Notary?
In order to become a remote Notary in Rhode Island, you must read the updated Standards of Conduct and complete the training that will be provided to you from your selected solution provider.
Is there an exam to become a remote Notary in Rhode Island?
No, there is no exam to register as a remote Notary in Rhode Island.
What tools and technology do I need to perform online notarizations in Rhode Island?
To provide RONs in Rhode Island, you'll need a computer, webcam, microphone and secure internet connection. You'll also need to select one of the state-approved RON technology providers, which includes BlueNotary, Clear Sign (Amrock, LLC), Cyberize It, Digital Delivery, DocVerify, NotaryCam, Notary @EpicRiver, OneNotary.us, OnlineNotary.us, Pavaso, SIGNiX, Simply Secure E-Sign and Stavvy.
Additional remote Notary supplies include your electronic stamp, electronic journal and digital certificate containing your electronic signature.
Do I need a surety bond?
No, you do not need to purchase a surety bond to perform RONs in Rhode Island.
Is an E&O insurance policy required in Rhode Island?
While an errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy is not required, it's strongly recommended. In the rare case you make a mistake during the notarization, an E&O policy will cover the cost of legal fees and damages up to the policy amount.
About Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Rhode Island
Remote notarization makes it easier and faster for Rhode Island Notaries to provide their services. Keep reading to learn more.
Does Rhode Island allow remote notarization?
Yes, RI House Bill 7363/Senate Bill 2705 makes permanent the temporary provisions allowing remote notarization in Rhode Island. Under the new bill, remote Notaries can perform notarizations for signers in any location as long as the Notaries themselves are physically located within the state at the time of the notarial act.
How do remote online notarizations work in Rhode Island?
Before the notarization process will begin, the signer will need to send the documents to the Notary electronically. The Notary Public will need to open the provided document in the approved solution provider on their computer and review the document with the signer to determine what kind of notarial act will be required. The Notary will begin the recording of the notarization using their approved solution provider, a recording which must be kept on file for at least 10 years.
The Notary confirms the signer's identity by personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence. A verification on oath or affirmation from a credible witness appearing before and identified by the Notary or two different types of identity proofing can either be considered the Notary having satisfactory evidence. The signer logs onto a RON platform and must pass a knowledge-based authentication (KBA) assessment and credential analysis.
The signer will sign the document on their computer using their electronic signature. The Notary confirms the signer's awareness and willingness to sign. Then, the Notary checks the document for blanks, completes the certificate wording, attaches their electronic stamp, and attaches their digital certificate containing their electronic signature.
The notarization is complete once the Notary makes an entry in their electronic journal and saves an audio-visual recording of the transaction.
If the signer leaves at any point during the notarial act, they must restart the credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication process from the beginning.
What notarial acts can be performed virtually?
The following notarial acts can be performed remotely:
- Taking an acknowledgment
- Administering an oath or affirmation
- Taking a verification on oath or affirmation
- Witnessing a signature
- Certifying a copy
- Executing a jurat
- Issuance of subpoenas
- Deposition of witnesses
How long do remote notarizations take vs. traditional notarizations?
Remote notarizations take far less time than traditional notarizations because the signer and Notary no longer need to meet in person. From the time the signer logs onto the RON platform to when the Notary attaches their digital certificate, the transaction can take only a few minutes to complete.
What's the difference between remote online notarization vs. electronic notarization?
Remote online notarizations and electronic notarizations both involve digital documents and electronic signatures, but RON is performed remotely whereas electronic notarizations are conducted in person.
Additional RON FAQs
Have more questions regarding RON? Read on for your answers.
How much does it cost to register as a remote Notary?
The cost to becoming a remote Notary in Rhode Island ranges from below $100 to a couple of hundred dollars, depending on the vendors you choose among other factors. While there is no registration fee, you'll need to consider the cost to sign up with a RON platform as well as your digital supplies like your eSeal and digital certificate.
If you have a surety bond and/or recommended E&O policy, you'll need to add in those maintenance fees. Other expenses to factor in are a computer, webcam, microphone and secure internet access if you don't already have these items.
How much can or remote Notaries charge per notarial act?
Rhode Island allows remote Notaries to charge a maximum fee of $25 per notarization.
How long does it take to become a remote Notary in Rhode Island?
It can take between two to six weeks to become an or remote Notary with a majority of this time spent on getting your traditional Notary Public commission. Once you're commissioned, the RON registration process is relatively quick.
Taking the required training course, selecting a RON provider, and completing and submitting your application should only take you a day. However, you'll need to allow the Secretary of State some time to process your request and send you an acknowledgment with their response.
How long will my remote Notary registration last?
Your remote Notary registration lasts for as long as your Notary Public commission is active. Once your commission expires, you'll need to renew your traditional Notary commission and re-register for your remote authorization.
Will RON services grow my or Notary business?
Yes, becoming registered as a remote online Notary and joining a RON platform can have a positive impact on your business. With the technology to offer your Notary services remotely, you can reach more signers in a shorter amount of time.
To further your business, you might want to get your Notary Signing Agent (NSA) certification. Becoming NSA certified demonstrates your knowledge in completing complex loan signings and proves you've passed a current background screening, making you eligible for more assignments.
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Last updated: Mar 21, 2023