Notaries with an active Notary Public commission or who are applying for a commission for the first time may register to perform remote online notarizations in Maine. Follow the steps below to become a remote online Notary:
- Get your Notary Public commission.
- Sign up with a RON provider.
- Complete RON provider training.
- Buy your Notary journal.
- Submit your completed application and required documents.
Maine Remote Notary Requirements
Notary Public Commission
To qualify for RON authorization, you must first hold a traditional Notary Public commission.
Applicants for a Maine Notary Public commission are required to complete an application, pay a fee, take an oath, return the completed certificate to the Secretary of State and buy a Notary journal.
Electronic Notary Supplies
In addition to your chosen RON provider(s), you’ll need the following supplies to perform remote notarizations:
- Computer
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Internet
- Electronic stamp
- Electronic signature
- Digital certificate
- Journal
A list of RON providers that meet state requirements can be found here. If you change vendors, you must notify the Secretary of State within 10 business days of the change.
Training
Notaries must complete the training that comes with their RON technology provider(s) and provide a certificate of completion to the Secretary of State.
Application
The Notice to Perform Electronic and/or Remote Online Notarizations form will require you to list the RON technology provider(s) you’ve signed up with to perform your services.
Along with your application, you must submit the training certificate of completion from your RON provider(s) and an example of your electronic stamp and electronic signature.
Cost of Becoming a Remote Online Notary in Maine
Becoming a remote Notary in Maine can cost up to $370, depending on the RON technology provider you work with plus other factors.
| Expense |
Cost |
| RON technology provider |
$0 - $100 |
| Electronic stamp |
$0 - $20 |
| Electronic signature |
$0 |
| Digital certificate |
$0 - $195 |
| Notary journal |
$0 - $55 |
| Total Cost |
$0 - $370 |
Maintaining your optional, but strongly recommended E&O policy will also factor into your startup costs. Additional expenses may include a computer, webcam, microphone and secure internet access if you don't already have those items.
About Remote Online Notarization in Maine
ME House Paper 1503 took effect on July 1, 2023, authorizing electronic and remote notarizations. The following notarial acts may be performed electronically or remotely:
- Take acknowledgments and proofs
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Execute verifications on oath or affirmation
- Certify affidavits
- Witness or attest signatures
- Execute protests
- Certify copies of documents
- Issue subpoenas
- Call meetings
Maine RON FAQs
Is a surety bond required to perform RONs?
A surety bond is not required of Maine Notaries to perform remote notarizations.
How can I minimize my liability?
An errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy can protect you from costly legal fees should a false claim be made against you. Protect yourself for as little as $2 per month with an E&O policy.
How much can Maine remote Notaries charge per notarial act?
Remote online Notaries may charge a reasonable fee per remote notarization. The state requires Notaries to disclose any fees they charge in advanced and ensure the signer agrees to it prior to the notarization.
How long will my remote Notary authorization last?
Your authorization to perform RONs lasts up until your Notary Public commission expires.
The term of a Notary Public commission in Maine is seven years. Whether you applied for remote notarization authorization at the time of your commission appointment or later, both your commission and authorization end at the same time.
You may renew your traditional commission and remote notarization authorization simultaneously.
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Last updated: May 15, 2024