California · RON law
Is remote online notarization legal in California?
Not yet from California notaries — but you still have options.
California’s permanent RON law is enacted but does not take effect until January 1, 2030. You can still notarize remotely today through a notary commissioned in another RON state.
What the law says in California
California enacted permanent remote online notarization through Senate Bill 696 (2023), but the law does not take effect until January 1, 2030. Until then, notaries commissioned in California cannot perform remote online notarizations. Californians can still get documents notarized remotely by a notary commissioned in another RON-authorized state — under California Civil Code §1189(b), an out-of-state notarial act is generally valid so long as it complied with the laws of the state where the notary is commissioned. Always confirm the receiving party (county recorder, lender, or agency) will accept an out-of-state online notarization.
How online notarization works
Remote online notarization lets you appear before a commissioned notary over live audio-video instead of in person. You upload your document, verify your identity through credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication (questions drawn from public records), meet the notary on video, and sign electronically. The notary applies an electronic seal and keeps a recording and audit trail as required. An acknowledgment or a jurat performed this way carries the same legal weight as one done across a desk.
When you might still want someone in person
Online notarization is ideal when every signer is comfortable on a webcam. When a signer won’t — an older seller, someone without a smartphone, or a deal where you need a wet signature — Jurably can send a mobile notary or an in-person signing concierge to the signer instead. Either way, if the document has to be recorded at the county to matter, we can file and record it and return the instrument number.
Common questions
Is remote online notarization legal in California?
Not yet from California-commissioned notaries. California’s permanent RON law takes effect January 1, 2030. In the meantime, California signers can typically have documents notarized remotely by a notary commissioned in another RON state.
What do I need for an online notarization in California?
A government-issued photo ID, the document you need notarized, a device with a camera and microphone, and a stable internet connection. Identity is confirmed through credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication before the notary meets you on video.
Will my California county or lender accept an online notarization?
Most do, and recorders increasingly accept electronically notarized documents. Acceptance can still vary by recipient, so confirm with the specific county recorder, lender, or agency that will receive your document before you rely on it.
This page is general information, not legal advice, and notarization laws change. Jurably is a self-help filing and notary service, not a law firm. Confirm current requirements with the California Secretary of State or your commissioning authority, and confirm acceptance with whoever will receive your document.