| Traditional | IPEN | RON | RIN* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Pen + Paper Notarization | In Person Electronic Notarization | Remote Online Notarization | Remote Ink-signed Notarization |
| Location | Signer + Notary meet face-to-face; signature is handwritten | Signer + Notary meet face-to-face; electronic signatures are used to sign an electronic document | Signer + Notary meet remotely, from different locations webcam; electronic signatures and documents are used | Signer + Notary meet remotely; signer signs a paper document live while communicating with the Notary online then sends document to the Notary* |
| Document/ (record) type | Physical paper document with signature in ink. | Electronic record (such as .pdf or Microsoft Word file). | Generally requires an electronic record, but some states** allow paper documents to be signed and notarized using RON. | Physical paper document with original signature required–may also require an additional electronic copy to be sent to Notary. |
| Identity Verification | Signer is identified by personal knowledge or satisfactory proof of identity. | Signer is identified by personal knowledge or satisfactory proof of identity. | Signer is identified by at least 2 identity verification methods specific to the remote environment. Examples include KBA***, credential analysis, & remote presentation. | Signer is identified by a state approved process. This varies by state and may include personal knowledge, remote presentation, or credible witness oath or affirmation. |
| Signing Process | Signer completes/signs paper document in ink. Notary completes certificate wording in ink and adds the physical Notary seal. | Signer completes/signs the electronic document. Notary signs the document with an electronic signature and affixes the electronic seal. | Signer signs the electronic document with an electronic signature. Notary signs the notarial certificate with an electronic signature and affixes the electronic seal. | Signer mails, faxes or electronically transmits paper document to Notary. Notary prints and performs notarial act on physical paper then mails, faxes or electronically transmits back to the Signer. |
