How to Become a Remote Online Notary in Arkansas

As of April 29, 2021, Arkansas Notaries with an active Notary Public commission may register to perform remote online notarizations (RONs). Follow the steps below if you're interested in becoming an AR remote online Notary.

Step 1: Hold an Existing Commission as a Traditional Notary Public

Before you can apply to perform remote notarizations, you must first hold a traditional Arkansas Notary Public commission.

You must be at least 18 years old, be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, and be a legal resident of Arkansas (or meet bordering state employment requirements). You must also be able to read and write English and have a clean record with no felony convictions or past commission revocations.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application for Electronic Notary Commission

Once you have your traditional commission, complete the Online Application for Electronic Notary Commission.
Submit your completed application and $25 fee through the Arkansas Secretary of State portal.

You’ll also need to take the required training course and pass the exam.

Step 3: Take the Required Training Course and Pass the Exam

Arkansas requires Notaries to take a training course from an approved provider and pass the exam. You may take the exam twice within 12 months. If you fail both attempts, you’ll need to restart the process.

Step 4: Contract with a State-Approved RON Provider

After completing training, you’ll need to contract with a state-approved Remote Online Notarization (RON) provider.
Approved options include: BlueNotary, Clear Sign, DocVerify, Pavaso, and SIGNiX.

You’ll also need:

• An electronic seal

• An electronic journal

• A digital certificate containing your electronic signature

Step 5: Maintain Your Surety Bond and Consider E&O Insurance

You do not need a second surety bond for RON. However, it’s strongly recommended to get an Errors & Omissions (E&O) policy to protect yourself against unintentional errors.

About Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Arkansas

Remote notarization allows Arkansas Notaries to perform notarial acts via secure two-way audio-video communication. You must be physically located in Arkansas during the notarization, though your signer can be anywhere.

How Remote Notarizations Work

1. Verify the signer’s identity using:

   • Personal knowledge

   • A credible witness

   • Credential analysis and identity proofing via your RON platform

2. Confirm awareness and willingness

3. Complete the notarial certificate

4. Apply your electronic seal and digital signature

5. Record the session in your electronic journal

Common Online Notarial Acts

Arkansas Notaries may perform these acts remotely:

• Acknowledgments

• Oaths and affirmations

• Jurats/verifications

• Witnessing or attesting signatures

• Copy certifications

Step 6: How to Make Money as a Remote Notary

Once you’re commissioned and approved for RON, you can start earning by:

• Performing remote notarizations for clients nationwide

• Partnering with signing services for real estate or loan signings

• Offering mobile and online notarizations locally

Watch this free video to learn actionable tips:

Enroll in the Roadmap to RON Course to build your remote notary business.

Join a supportive community on Facebook: Connect with other notaries, share tips, and find support from a growing community of RON professionals.

Conclusion

Becoming a Remote Online Notary in Arkansas gives you the flexibility to work from anywhere while expanding your client base beyond your local area.
Follow the official Arkansas Secretary of State RON steps, choose a compliant platform, and start earning as a certified RON professional.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult the appropriate state laws or a qualified professional before taking action.