How Online Notarization Works Step-by-Step

8 min

Introduction

Online notarization provides a secure and convenient alternative to traditional in-person notarization. Instead of scheduling an appointment and traveling to a notary, you can meet with a commissioned notary via a secure video conference from the comfort of your home or office. This service is especially helpful for real estate transactions, legal documents, and financial agreements that require notarization.

Preparing for your session

Before your online notarization appointment, gather the document you need notarized and ensure you have a valid government-issued photo ID. The Proof platform will ask you to upload your document and verify your identity through credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.

Step-by-step process

- Schedule your appointment: Use the Proof platform to schedule a session at a convenient time. You'll receive a secure link to join the video conference.
- Upload your document: Prior to the call, upload a clear digital version of the document you need notarized. The system will check that all pages are included and ready for review.
- Verify your identity: The platform uses multiple methods to confirm your identity. You'll be asked to answer security questions based on your personal history and present your government-issued ID. Credential analysis technology checks that your ID is genuine and unaltered.
- Join the secure video call: When it's time for your appointment, click the link to enter the notary's virtual meeting room. You'll be connected to a commissioned notary through a live audio-visual session. This call is recorded and stored for compliance.
- Sign and notarize: During the video session, the notary will confirm your identity and witness you electronically sign the document. You will also apply your digital signature using Proof's secure signing tools. The notary adds an electronic seal and digital certificate to complete the notarization.
- Receive your notarized document: After the session, you'll receive a tamper-evident PDF of the notarized document. The file includes an audit trail, digital signatures and a secure seal that can be verified by any recipient.

Identity verification and security

Online notarization is supported by robust security measures. Identity verification uses credential analysis to scan your ID and cross-check it with trusted databases, along with knowledge-based questions to confirm personal details. The entire session is recorded, and your notarized document is digitally sealed with a certificate that meets industry standards such as the Adobe Approved Trust List. This makes remote notarization legally valid and widely accepted.

Devices and accessibility

One of the biggest benefits of remote notarization is flexibility. You can join your appointment from a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer. The Proof platform works with iPhone, Android, Mac and Windows devices. You don't need special software — you can connect using any modern web browser or download the Proof app for a dedicated mobile experience.

FAQs

- Can I use remote notarization if I’m not in Florida? Yes. While the notary is commissioned in Florida, clients can participate from anywhere as long as they have a reliable internet connection. Documents notarized under Florida law are valid across the United States.
- How long does an online notarization session take? Most appointments are completed in about fifteen minutes, including identity verification and signing.
- What if I need multiple signatures? Remote notarization allows multiple signers to join from different locations. Each signer will verify their identity and sign during the same session.
- Are there documents that cannot be notarized online? Certain documents, such as wills or court documents, may require in-person notarization. Always check your local regulations or consult your attorney if you’re unsure.

Conclusion

Remote online notarization streamlines the notarization process by combining convenience and security. By using the Proof platform, you can complete your notarization from the comfort of your home or office using any device. If you’re ready to experience the ease of remote notarization, schedule your appointment today and enjoy a seamless, legally compliant signing process.

With remote online notarization, you can securely notarize your document from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Ready to experience the convenience and security of remote online notarization? With Proof’s secure platform, you can complete your notarization from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop. Schedule your session today for a seamless and legally compliant process.