A live notarial act, completed online
Remote online notarization (RON) lets a signer and a Texas-commissioned online notary meet by live audio-video technology. It is not an automated stamp or a document-review service. The notary still identifies the signer, observes the signing or acknowledgment, completes the notarial certificate, and creates the records required for the online act.
The five-part appointment flow
- Submit a service request and tell APS what type of document and notarial act the receiving party expects.
- Open the secure session on a supported phone, tablet, or computer with a camera, microphone, reliable internet, and a private place to talk.
- Complete the platform's identity steps. These may include credential analysis of a government-issued ID and dynamic knowledge-based authentication (KBA).
- Meet the notary by live audio-video. The notary confirms willingness and awareness, administers an oath when the act requires one, and watches the required action.
- The notary applies the electronic certificate and seal in the approved platform. Delivery timing depends on the document and service workflow.
Location and eligibility
A Texas online notary must be physically located in Texas when performing the notarization. A signer may be elsewhere, but the document, receiving party, platform, and applicable law must allow the transaction. Some documents or circumstances may require an in-person appointment.
Before you begin
- Confirm the receiving party accepts remote online notarization.
- Use your own email address and a device you control.
- Have an acceptable, unexpired government-issued photo ID available.
- Do not pre-sign a document when the requested act requires signing in the notary's presence.
- Keep sensitive document contents out of ordinary email or feedback forms.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my phone?
Often, yes, when the platform supports the device and the camera, microphone, browser, and connection work reliably.
What if I cannot pass identity verification?
APS cannot bypass or answer identity questions. A neutral next step may be to retry only when the platform permits, confirm your information, or request an in-person option.
Does APS choose the notarial certificate?
No. The signer or receiving party must identify the requested notarial act; a notary cannot provide legal advice.