When you need a document notarized, you now have more choices than ever. Two of the most popular options are mobile notary services and remote online notary (RON) services.
Both options can help you complete important transactions, but the experience—and efficiency—are very different. Let’s explore how they compare.
What Is a Mobile Notary?
A mobile notary is a commissioned notary public who travels to meet clients in person.
Mobile notaries are commonly used for:
- Real estate closings
- Loan signings
- Legal documents that require a physical witness
Pros of a Mobile Notary:
- Convenience of having someone come to you
- Familiar face-to-face interaction
Cons of a Mobile Notary:
- Extra travel fees
- Appointment scheduling delays
- Often requires printing, signing, and scanning documents before and after the meeting
What Is a Remote Online Notary (RON)?
A remote online notary performs notarizations completely online using secure audio-video technology.
Here’s how RON works:
- Upload your document to a secure platform.
- Verify your identity through advanced authentication.
- Meet with a commissioned notary over live video.
- Receive your notarized document instantly in digital form.
Benefits of RON:
- Access from anywhere with internet
- No printing or scanning needed—100% digital
- Faster turnaround with instant delivery
- Built-in fraud protection and ID verification
Mobile Notary vs. Remote Online Notary: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Mobile Notary | Remote Online Notary (RON) |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Notary travels to your location | Available from any device with internet |
| Cost | Includes travel fees; rates vary | Typically lower; no travel costs |
| Speed | Appointment-based; wait for travel | Instant availability; process takes minutes |
| Printing/Scanning | Often required | 100% digital; no printing or scanning needed |
| Security & Accuracy | Manual checks | Automated ID verification and error-prevention tools |
| Accessibility | Limited to local service areas | No geographic restrictions within authorized states |
| Eco-Friendly | Travel and energy consumption | Fully digital, paperless, and sustainable |
Why Remote Online Notarization Is the Smarter Choice
- Save Time – Skip the hassle of driving, scheduling, printing, and scanning. With RON, the entire process is digital and only takes minutes.
- Lower Costs – No travel fees or delays. RON is usually more affordable than hiring a mobile notary.
- Greater Security – RON platforms use secure ID verification and encryption to reduce fraud and errors.
- Anytime, Anywhere Access – Whether at home, in the office, or on the go, you can connect with a notary online at your convenience.
The Bottom Line
Both mobile notary and remote online notary services have value, but RON is built for today’s digital world. It’s faster, more convenient, and more cost-effective—without the hassle of printing, scanning, or waiting.
How to Get Started with Remote Online Notary Services
- Upload your documents from our scheduling page
- Verify your identity online.
- Meet with a notary over live video.
- Download your completed notarized document instantly.