Is Online Notarization Allowed in My State? (2026)
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"Is online notarization legal?" has different answers depending on who's counting:
| Count | Source | What it counts |
|---|---|---|
| 47 states + D.C. | NASS | States with a remote e-notarization law |
| 48 states + D.C. | ALTA | Laws or executive orders |
| 45 states + D.C. | MBA | Laws usable for real-estate finance |
| 42 states | USA Notary review (Jul–Oct 2026) | States where a consumer can complete RON under that state's own law today |
Source for all four rows: USA Notary, State of RON 2026 (a RON platform; figures attributed to each organization).
Not yet operational (per that review)
California, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina. Alabama and Connecticut allow only limited, paper-output remote acts.
If you live in one of those states
You can often still use an online notary commissioned in another state, because the notary's commissioning state authorizes the act (USA Notary; Notarize). The real question is whether the recipient (your county recorder, DMV, bank or foreign authority) accepts it. Ask them before you pay.
Fee caps differ online
Several states cap online acts higher than in-person acts. Examples verified in state law: Texas allows up to $25 extra for an online notarization on top of the regular fee (Tex. Gov't Code ch. 406); Florida allows up to $25 per online act versus $10 in person (Fla. Stat. ch. 117).
Online options
Related guides
- California Notary Fees (2026) and Where to Get Notarized
- Can Real Estate Documents Be Notarized Online?
- Can a Notary Complete Form I-9? (Authorized Representative Rules)
- Florida Notary Fees (2026), In Person and Online
- Getting a Power of Attorney Notarized: In Person or Online
- How to Notarize USPS Form 1583 (In Person or Online)