How to Become a Remote Notary in Iowa: A Comprehensive Guide
Becoming a Remote Online Notary (RON) in Iowa is an excellent way to modernize your notarial services and tap into the growing demand for online convenience. Remote Online Notarization enables notaries to notarize documents over the internet, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for clients. Follow this guide to learn how to start your journey as a Remote Online Notary in Iowa.
Step 1: Understand the Basic Requirements
Before you can perform remote notarial acts, you must first become a Commissioned Notary in Iowa. The process involves:
- Completing the Application for Notary Commission.
- Paying a $30 commission fee.
However, being commissioned is not enough. Iowa Code Chapter 9B requires all notaries to register with the Iowa Secretary of State to perform Remote Online Notarizations (RON).
Key Points to Remember:
- Registration is mandatory for remote notarial acts.
- There is no additional fee for registering as a Remote Online Notary.
Step 2: Complete Remote Notarization Training
To confidently perform Remote Online Notarizations, it’s recommended that you complete a training course. This ensures you understand the legal and technical requirements, best practices, and the tools you’ll need to succeed in your role as a RON.
By taking a training course with us, you’ll be equipped to meet Iowa’s standards for remote notarization while delivering exceptional service to your clients.
Step 3: Select and Utilize Approved Remote Notarization Software
Iowa law requires Remote Online Notaries to use specialized software designed for secure and compliant notarization. Popular video-conferencing tools like Skype, Zoom, or Facebook do not meet these requirements.
ProNotary is an approved vendor for Iowa and would love the opportunity to partner with you.
Step 4: Adhere to Record-Keeping and Privacy Standards
Iowa law mandates the recording and retention of each notarial act. For the safety of your clients, only the actual notarial act should be recorded—not processes like identity verification or knowledge-based questions.
Best Practices for Record Keeping:
- Confirm your recordings comply with Iowa’s retention laws.
- Use secure storage solutions provided by your remote notarization software.
Step 5: Register with the Iowa Secretary of State
With your commissioned notary status and approved software in place, you’re ready to officially register as a Remote Online Notary. Submit your application to the Iowa Secretary of State to begin offering your services.
Benefits of Becoming a Remote Online Notary
- Convenience: Serve clients from anywhere with internet access.
- Increased Demand: Meet the needs of individuals and businesses seeking online solutions.
- Flexibility: Work on your own schedule while expanding your client base.
Ready to Begin Your Remote Notary Journey?
Sign up today to become a Remote Online Notary in Iowa and transform your notarial business! Don’t miss the opportunity to expand your expertise and adapt to the modern needs of notarization.
Please note that this is accurate at the time of publishing, but always refer to the Secretary of State for clarification and to stay up to date.
