Remote Online Notarization in Alaska

Alaska authorizes remote online notarizations since 2021.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) has been a permanent legal practice in Alaska since January 1, 2021, following the passage of House Bill 124. It allows Alaskans to notarize documents electronically using secure audio-video technology, which is particularly vital given the state's vast geography and remote communities.

Core Laws and Statutes

• Primary Statute: AS 44.50.075 (Notarial act performed for remotely located individuals).

• Administrative Code: 6 AAC 88.010 - .050 (Regulations on electronic and remote notarization).

How it Works for Signers

The process transforms traditional paper notarization into a fully digital experience:

1. Identity Verification: The notary must verify your identity using Credential Analysis (scanning your government ID) and Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA), which are security questions based on your credit or public record history.

2. Audio-Video Session: You and the notary meet on a secure platform. The session is recorded and must be kept by the notary for 10 years.

3. Digital Signing: You apply an electronic signature to the document, and the notary applies their digital seal.

4. Acceptance: Alaska law (AS 09.63.050) mandates that remote notarizations performed by out-of-state notaries are also recognized in Alaska, provided they follow their own state's laws.

Requirements for Alaska Notaries

To perform RON, an Alaska notary must meet the following criteria:

• Active Commission: You must already hold a traditional Alaska Notary Public commission.

• Physical Presence: While the signer can be anywhere in the world, the notary must be physically located within the state of Alaska during the session.

• Notification: You must notify the Office of the Lieutenant Governor in writing (notary@alaska.gov) and identify the technology provider you intend to use.

• Equipment: You must possess an electronic seal and a digital certificate that makes documents "tamper-evident."

Technology Providers

Alaska does not strictly "approve" specific vendors but provides a list of technology providers that have met the state's functional standards (6 AAC 88). Popular choices include:

• Notarize (Proof), NotaryCam, PandaDoc, BlueNotary, and SIGNiX.

• Full List: Alaska Lt. Governor's Notarial Resources

Fees and Record-Keeping

• Fees: There is no statewide maximum fee set for RON services in Alaska, though most platforms charge between $25 and $30 per act.

• Retention: Alaska requires that the audio-visual recording of the RON act be stored securely for 10 years.