Electronic & Remote Online Notarization
Hawaii has moved toward authorizing electronic and remote notarization under specific rules; the strict record-keeping duty continues to apply.
Electronic/remote acts
Where Hawaii authorizes electronic or remote notarization, the notary must use approved technology, verify identity through the required process (credential analysis and identity proofing or personal knowledge), and—for remote acts—retain the audio-video recording. The underlying certificate and certification-number requirements still apply.
Records for electronic acts
Hawaii's mandatory record-keeping extends to electronic and remote acts, with retention of any required audio-video recording. Because Hawaii emphasizes records so heavily, e-notary recordkeeping is central. Confirm the current AG rules and which acts may be performed remotely.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- Hawaii Department of the Attorney General (Notaries Public)
- Passing score
- 80%
Who commissions notaries in Hawaii?
Uniquely among U.S. states, Hawaii notaries are commissioned by the Department of the Attorney General, not the Secretary of State.
Does Hawaii require a notary exam?
Yes. Hawaii requires an in-person, closed-book written exam covering HRS Chapter 456 and the notary rules, taken at the Attorney General's office. Study is self-directed from the state Notary Public Manual.
What score do I need to pass the Hawaii notary exam?
You must score at least 80% to pass the Hawaii notary examination.
How much can a Hawaii notary charge per act?
Hawaii caps ordinary notarial fees at $5.00 per acknowledgment or certificate per signer under HRS §456-17. A commission runs for 4 years.
Sources: https://ag.hawaii.gov/notaries-public/, https://law.justia.com/codes/hawaii/title-25/chapter-456/section-456-17/