Seal, Stamp & Signature
Hawaii requires an official seal or stamp with the notary's name and certification number, used with the signature and certification statement.
Seal and certification number
A Hawaii notary must use an official seal or stamp showing the notary's name and, importantly, the certification/identification number assigned by the Attorney General, together with 'Notary Public' and 'State of Hawaii.' The certification number tying each act to the specific notary is a distinctive Hawaii feature that appears on the certificate.
Care of the seal
The seal must be kept secure and used only by the commissioned notary. If lost or stolen, the notary should notify the Attorney General. On resignation or expiration the seal must be disposed of so it cannot be misused, and records handled as directed.
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/