How to become a notary in Hawaii

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The term of a Hawaii Notary Public commission is four years. Have more questions about applying for a Notary Public commission in the Aloha State? We've got you covered.

The cost to become a Notary in Hawaii is between $236 and $261, depending on where you purchase your surety bond and supplies.

It can take six to eight weeks to become commissioned as a Hawaii Notary Public. After submitting your application and requested documents online, you’ll receive the date you're scheduled to take the exam. The state will inform you if you have passed or failed the Notary exam within 30 days.

There are basic qualifications for a person to become a Notary in Hawaii. All applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of Hawaii
• Be a citizen of, national of or permanent resident alien authorized to work in the U.S.
• Be able to read, write, speak and understand English
• Not be addicted to, dependent on or a habitual user of narcotics, barbiturates, amphetamines, hallucinogens, opium, cocaine, or other drugs or derivatives of a similar nature

Complete the application online. Pay the $20 filing fee to the State Director of Finance unless you are exempt.

You must submit two letters:

1. Letter of justification: Have a corporate officer or partner of your organization detail the reasons for your commission application, estimated number and types of notarial acts, and confirmation of your service to the general public.
2. Letter of character: Have a reputable Hawaii resident (not an employer or relative) who can vouch for your integrity and moral character.

Passing an exam is required to become a Notary in Hawaii. The exam is a written, closed-book test that you must score 80% or higher to pass.

Create an account online to schedule your exam. The exam is given on Oahu at least once a month and on other islands periodically.

Failure to take the exam as scheduled will result in various fees and penalties depending on whether and when you gave notice of your inability to appear for the exam.

If you fail the exam, a fee or a delay may be imposed before you can reapply for a commission.

A $1,000 four-year bond is required for Hawaii Notaries. It must be approved by a judge of the circuit court.

A Notary seal and journal are required. Your Notary seal must be a rubber inked stamp. The shape of the seal must be circular no larger than 2" in diameter with a serrated or milled edge border. It must contain the following information:

• Your name as it appears on your commission
• Your commission number
• The words "Notary Public"
• The words "State of Hawaii"

Note that your commission expiration date is not allowed on your seal. However, all Hawaii Notaries are required to put their commission expiration date on all notarized documents.

A Notary journal, which keeps a record of all your notarizations, is also required by law. The journal must be softcover, permanently bound, and not exceed 16.5" x 11" when fully opened.

Visit the clerk of the circuit court where you reside to file your bond, a copy of your commission, an imprint of your Notary seal and a specimen of your Notary signature.

Here, you'll find general information about being a Hawaii Notary Public.

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Last updated: Jun 11, 2025

Get everything you need with a full Hawaii Notary Package.