Mobile Notary vs Remote Online Notary (RON): Which One Do You Need?

If you’ve ever Googled “notary near me” and felt instantly overwhelmed, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get is: “Do I need a mobile notary, or can this be done online?”

The short answer: it depends on the document. The good news is that once you understand the difference, choosing the right option gets a lot easier.

What Is a Mobile Notary?

A mobile notary travels to you (your home, office, hospital room, or another agreed-upon location) to notarize documents in person.

This option is often required when:

• The document must be signed physically

• The receiving agency does not accept online notarization

• The signer does not have access to reliable technology

• Witnesses must be physically present

Mobile notarization prioritizes physical presence and traditional execution.

What Is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows certain documents to be notarized over a secure video call using approved technology. The signer and notary are not in the same physical location.

RON is often a great fit when:

• Time matters

• Travel is difficult

• The document is legally eligible for online notarization

• Convenience and accessibility are priorities

RON prioritizes speed, accessibility, and flexibility without cutting corners.

Florida-Specific Notes

In Florida:

• Not all documents are eligible for online notarization

• Some agencies, courts, or countries require wet signatures

• Certain real estate or estate planning documents may have specific rules

This is why a notary should verify eligibility first, not guess.

Mobile Notary	Remote Online Notary
In-person signing	Video-based signing
Physical ID check	Digital identity verification
Travel involved	No travel required
Required for some documents	Allowed for many, but not all

So… Which One Should You Choose?

Choose mobile notarization if:

• The document requires in-person signing

• The receiving party insists on physical execution

• Technology access is limited

Choose remote online notarization if:

• The document is eligible

• You want speed and convenience

• Location or scheduling is a challenge

If you’re unsure, that’s normal. A good notary helps you choose correctly, not quickly.

Whether your document is signed at your kitchen table or over a secure video call, the process should feel calm, clear, and handled.