Understanding Digital Signatures in Remote Online Notarization

"Think of your digital signature like a superhero version of your handwritten one—stronger, smarter, and built to fight forgery. It may not look the same, but it’s packed with high-tech tools to prove it’s really you and keep your documents safe.”

- Suzanne Feinberg, Arizona Remote Online Notary since 2020

Understanding Your Digital Signature Options with AZ Roving Notary

At AZ Roving Notary, one of the most common questions our clients ask is:

"How do I sign documents digitally?"

This question highlights the need for clarity in the evolving world of Remote Online Notarization (RON). As more individuals transition to digital document management, understanding how digital signatures work and how they are applied in a legally secure and efficient manner is essential.

In this blog post, we break down the digital signing process, explain the tools we use, and walk you through your signature options—ensuring your online notarization is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.

Electronic vs. Digital Signatures: Knowing the Difference

Many people use the terms electronic signature and digital signature interchangeably, but they are substantially different in their ability
to prevent fraud.

An electronic signature is any electronic process that indicates acceptance of an agreement. This can be as simple as typing your name or checking a box.
A digital signature is a more secure and encrypted form of electronic signature, offering tamper-evident protection and authentication features.

At AZ Roving Notary, we prioritize digital signatures through two trusted platforms: Secured Signing and Pactima. These platforms comply with U.S. federal law (ESIGN Act) and Arizona state law, ensuring that your signed documents are legally valid and secure.

Why does this matter? Because a secure, verifiable signature not only
protects your identity but also builds trust with the recipient of your notarized
documents—whether that’s a title company, bank, legal firm, court,
corporation, government agency or any other recipient of the notarized
document.

Your Signature Options Explained

Depending on the platform used for your session (Secured Signing or Pactima), you may have up to four distinct options to apply your digital signature. Each offers unique advantages based on your device and personal preferences.

1. Type Your Signature

This is by far the most convenient and widely used method.

How it works: You type your name, and the platform automatically converts it into a stylized script font.
Why clients love it: It’s fast, professional-looking, and fully compliant with most legal and notarization requirements.
Pro Tip: Choose a font style that feels authentic to you and use it consistently throughout the document to maintain a cohesive look.

Supported by: Secured Signing & Pactima

2. Sign with Your Mouse or Trackpad

This option allows you to manually draw your signature using your computer’s mouse or trackpad.

When it’s useful: Ideal for documents that require a “handwritten” appearance, such as those being filed in Pennsylvania, where this method is often preferred.
Limitations: It can be a little clunky if you're not comfortable using a mouse or touchpad to write. However, it satisfies the requirement for a personal, hand-drawn signature.

Bonus Tip: If you’re using Secured Signing, there’s a smarter way—use your smartphone instead (see option #4).

3. Upload an Image of Your Signature

This method lets you upload a pre-created image of your signature.

How we use it: Our notaries at AZ Roving Notary use this to ensure brand consistency across all signed documents. It’s especially helpful when our signature must appear multiple times or across different platforms.
Client recommendation: We usually don’t recommend this for most clients—it requires more setup and isn’t necessary for basic notarizations.
Want to create a branded signature? We partner with Artlogo, a company that specializes in customized signature designs for professionals. From email footers to social media branding, it’s a sleek way to elevate your digital presence.

Affiliate Note: We receive a small commission for purchases made through this link. You pay nothing extra—and might even get a discount!

Available on: Secured Signing & Pactima

4. Sign on Your Smartphone

A modern, user-friendly option for those who prefer signing with a finger or stylus.

How it works: Secured Signing sends a link to your smartphone during your session. You simply open it, draw your signature, and it syncs back to the document in real-time.
Best for: Clients who are on desktops but want a natural-looking handwritten signature. It’s also the ideal choice for those completing their RON from Pennsylvania, where handwritten digital signatures are preferred.

Exclusive to: Secured Signing

Consistency Is Key in Digital Signing

Another frequent question we hear is:

"Can I sign once and auto-fill the rest of the document?"

While some software offers auto-fill features, AZ Roving Notary does not use them. Here’s why:

Transparency: You deserve to know exactly where your signature is
placed and why—no surprises.
Integrity: Taking time to sign each section helps make sure nothing
important slips past you.
Accuracy: You should feel confident about what you’re signing, every
single time.

That said, we absolutely recommend that you use the same signature style throughout the document. For example, if you start with a cursive font or a drawn signature, continue with that format. Even though mismatched signatures might still be legally accepted, they can raise questions or concerns with recipients.

What If You’re Signing Entirely on Your Phone?

No worries—your signature process just got even easier.

When you're using a mobile device for your full notarization appointment, the platform simplifies your experience. Instead of toggling between devices or trying to draw with a mouse, you can use your finger or stylus to complete every signature.

Smartphone-only sessions offer:

Speed
Simplicity
Consistent appearance
Accessibility across all document types

Regardless of which platform we use, signing from your phone is secure, efficient, and 100% compliant.

Did You Know?

👉 Over 80% of AZ Roving Notary clients choose the “Type Your Signature” method for its simplicity, reliability, and almost universal acceptance.

Your Signature, Secured and Simplified

At AZ Roving Notary, our mission is to demystify digital notarization. With secure technology, legal compliance, and a human touch, we make sure your documents are:

Professionally signed
Legally valid
Easily understood

Whether you prefer typing your name, drawing your signature, uploading an image, or signing on your phone, we’re with you every step of the way—providing tools, guidance, and peace of mind.

Client Testimonial

“I had no idea digital notarization could be this easy. The team at AZ Roving Notary explained every step in plain English. Signing digitally was fast, intuitive, and even kind of fun. I was done in less than 10 minutes!”
— Carlos M., Tempe, AZ

Our mission is to make your journey smoother, safer, and stress-free. Trust us to take care of your documents like they were our own.

EXPLORE REMOTE ONLINE NOTARIZATION TODAY

GET YOUR CUSTOM SIGNATURE TODAY!

This blog was conceived by Suzanne Feinberg, content suggested by AI, designed/edited/finalized by Zibster, and approved/published by AZ Roving Notary.

Legal Disclaimer: According to Arizona law, our notaries are not attorneys and are not licensed to practice law in Arizona. Our notaries are not allowed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration or charge a fee for those activities. Our notaries only responsibility is to provide the notary services as set forth by the laws and statutes of Arizona. At AZ Roving Notary we are not attorneys and therefore, by law, we cannot explain or interpret the contents of any document for you. We cannot instruct you on how to complete a document. We cannot direct you on the advisability of signing a particular document. We cannot advise you as to the type of notarial certificate you should use for your document. Please seek legal advice from a state of Arizona experienced and licensed attorney. This website is offered for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

*All notarizations are guaranteed to be done according to Arizona statutes and regulations. Paperwork accuracy is the responsibility of the document preparer.
**Same day orders require 4 hours notice from the time of call to dispatch if we have availability.

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