Notary Public in Hawaii

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for HI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

payments
$160

Est. total cost

schedule
6-8 weeks

Time to complete

route How to become a notary public in Hawaii

To become a Notary Public in Hawaii, applicants must apply through the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General. Key steps include meeting eligibility requirements such as being at least 18 years old and a Hawaii resident, submitting an online application with a $20 fee, providing a letter of justification and a character recommendation, and passing a closed-book examination with a score of 80% or higher. A $1,000 surety bond, approved by a Circuit Court Judge, is also required, along with a notary seal and journal. Notary commissions are valid for four years, and Hawaii does not have reciprocity with other states, meaning Hawaii notaries can only perform duties within the state.

checklist Hawaii requirements

Licensing bodyHawaii Department of the Attorney General
State license Required
EducationAble to read and write English
ExamHawaii Notary Public Examination ($10)
Application fee$20
RenewalEvery 4.0 years
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years old, a Hawaii resident, a U.S. citizen or national, or a permanent resident alien diligently seeking U.S. citizenship. They must be proficient in English and not addicted to narcotics. A $1,000 surety bond is required and must be approved by a Circuit Court Judge. Applicants must also submit a letter of justification and a letter of character recommendation. The exam is closed-book, and a score of 80% or higher is required to pass. Renewing notaries are exempt from the exam if they have previously passed it. A notary seal and journal are also required. Hawaii notaries cannot perform duties outside of Hawaii, and out-of-state notaries cannot operate in Hawaii.

Source: Hawaii Department of the Attorney General

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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a notary public in Hawaii? expand_more
The path to notary public licensure in Hawaii: complete the required education (Able to read and write English), pass the Hawaii Notary Public Examination, and submit your application ($20 fee).
Does Hawaii require notary public licensure? expand_more
Yes, Hawaii requires a state license to practice as a notary public. The licensing body is Hawaii Department of the Attorney General. You must pass the Hawaii Notary Public Examination.
What are the fees to become a notary public in Hawaii? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($10) and application fee ($20). The estimated total investment is $160, including education and training.
How quickly can I become a notary public in Hawaii? expand_more
The typical timeline in Hawaii is 6-8 weeks. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

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