Maryland Electronic And Remote Notarization: Key Differences

Electronic notarization and remote online notarization both modernize Maryland notarial work, but they accomplish very different goals. One supports efficient in-person digital workflows; the other enables legally valid notarization from anywhere. 

Maryland’s Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA) provides the foundation for both methods, but it imposes different procedures, technologies, and record-keeping requirements. Understanding the distinctions ensures that notarial acts are compliant, secure, and properly executed.

Electronic Notarization In Maryland

Electronic notarization, often referred to as IPEN (In-Person Electronic Notarization), maintains the signer’s and notary’s presence together while converting the document into an electronic format. It is best viewed as a modernized version of traditional notarization rather than a replacement for personal appearance. Signers still appear physically before the notary, but signatures, seals, and records shift to secure digital platforms.

How Maryland Electronic Notarization Works

In an electronic notarization, the signer and notary meet in person. The signer provides acceptable identification in accordance with Maryland’s identification standards, and the record is reviewed on a digital device. The signer signs electronically, and the notary then applies an electronic signature and electronic seal using a compliant digital certificate. The completed document becomes tamper-evident once sealed.

Technology Used For Electronic Notarization

Electronic notarization relies on secure digital certificates, typically based on X.509 standards. Platforms often include e-signature systems, closing software, or dedicated electronic notarization tools. Devices such as tablets, laptops, or signature pads may be used, but no audio-video technology is required since the signer is physically present.

Recordkeeping Obligations For Electronic Notarization

Maryland requires all notaries to maintain a journal for every notarial act, including electronic ones, and retain it for a period of ten years. For electronic records, the notary must ensure secure storage that prevents unauthorized access. While eNotary sessions do not require audio-visual recordings, electronic documents must remain protected and accessible during the retention period.

Remote Online Notarization In Maryland

Remote online notarization (RON) enables a signer to appear before a Maryland notary using approved communication technology, rather than being physically present. Maryland permanently authorized remote notarization beginning in 2020 under RULONA amendments, allowing Maryland notaries to serve in-state, out-of-state, and even international signers remotely. RON introduces additional technology, identity verification, and long-term storage obligations.

How a Maryland RON Session Works

A RON session takes place on a real-time audio-visual platform where the notary and signer can see and hear one another simultaneously. The signer undergoes identity verification through remote presentation of ID, credential analysis, and identity proofing (often a knowledge-based quiz). Once verified, the signer signs electronically, and the notary completes a certificate stating the act was performed with a remotely located individual.

Technology Required For RON

Remote online notarization requires a compliant RON platform that is capable of conducting audio-visual communication, performing credential analysis and identity proofing, managing electronic documents, and storing recordings for a minimum of ten years. These platforms also support digital certificates that allow notaries to apply an electronic signature and electronic seal securely.

Recordkeeping Obligations For RON

Every RON session must be recorded and preserved for a minimum of ten years. Notaries must also maintain a notarial journal entry indicating that the appearance was remote and must ensure secure, password-protected, or cryptographically protected storage for recordings and electronic records. If a vendor manages the recordings, the notary must ensure contractual compliance with retention requirements.

Choosing Between Electronic Notarization And RON

Both methods are legally valid in Maryland, but each fits different practical needs. Electronic notarization is ideal when signers can appear in person but wish to avoid paper and streamline digital workflows. 

Remote online notarization is the best choice when signers are distant, unavailable for travel, or require faster digital access. Many Maryland businesses adopt both methods to maximize flexibility and efficiency for clients and staff.

Comparison Table

Feature	Electronic Notarization (IPEN)	Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Signer’s Location	Physically with the notary	Remote via audio-visual technology
Document Form	Electronic record	Electronic record or approved tangible procedures
Identity Verification	Standard in-person ID rules	Remote ID verification, credential analysis, identity proofing
Technology Requirements	Digital certificate, e-signature platform	RON platform with audio-video, credential analysis, and recording
Audio-Video Recording	Not required	Required for every session
Journal Requirements	Standard journal entry	Journal entry noting remote appearance plus stored recording
Maximum Fee	Up to 8	Up to 30
Best Use Cases	In-office signings, digital workflows	Remote clients, cross-state transactions, urgent remote needs

Train With Notary Public Association

The Notary Public Association offers comprehensive training that helps Maryland notaries understand both electronic notarization and remote online notarization with absolute clarity. Our programs explain Maryland’s legal requirements, demonstrate compliant technology use, guide you through secure recordkeeping, and illustrate real-world use cases for each method. With expert instruction and practical resources, Maryland notaries build confidence and accuracy in every digital notarization they perform.