Understanding X.509 Certificates vs. Your Electronic Notary Seal

Posted April 28, 2025

When you become a Remote Online Notary, there are two essential items you’ll need:

  • Your X.509 Digital Certificate
  • Your Electronic Notary Seal

X.509 Digital Certificate

Think of the X.509 certificate as your secure digital signature. It verifies that you completed the notarization, protects the document from tampering, and is required by most states for Remote Online Notarization (RON).

Electronic Notary Seal

The electronic notary seal is the digital version of your traditional rubber stamp. It displays your:

  • Name
  • Commission number
  • Commission expiration date

What You Should Know

Many RON platforms require notaries to purchase their electronic seal separately through a third-party vendor — adding unexpected costs.

ProNotary Makes It Simple

At ProNotary, your electronic notary seal is included at no additional cost. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.

We also guide you through the entire setup process — from uploading your X.509 certificate to activating your free, state-compliant electronic seal.

Sign up today and get everything you need to start performing secure, compliant online notarizations with confidence.

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