How to Become a Notary in Hawaii
Have you ever wanted to become a notary in Hawaii and be part of one of the most respected professions in the state?
Whether you’re looking for a way to dive into an exciting career or add some extra income, becoming a notary public can be an attractive option for many different reasons.
So if you’re ready to embark on your journey and learn how to become a notary in Hawaii, read on! Here we’ll provide all the information you need about what it means to serve as a commissioned Notary Public, what steps are involved in obtaining your certification, and which requirements must be met along the way.
With this guide, anyone can make their dream of being appointed Hawaii’s next official Notary Public come true!
Requirements to be a Notary in Hawaii
To be a notary public in Hawaii, the person must be:
- If you are a United States citizen or permanent resident alien, and you strive to obtain citizenship when eligible
- A resident of Hawaii
- At least 18 years of age
How do I get my notary license in Hawaii?
- To obtain a Hawaii notary public commission, applicants must fill out an online application at notary.ehawaii.gov and provide the necessary supporting documents to complete their request. This online account will be used for the rest of the online notary public application process.
- If the Hawaii Attorney General notary office approves an applicant, they must pass a comprehensive written examination that covers both practical and theoretical topics related to notary public practice in Hawaii. The test will focus on statutory laws, and rules of procedure relating to such matters as duties and responsibilities of a Notary Public, so potential applicants must have an extensive understanding and knowledge of Hawaiian notarial law beforehand.
- Upon confirmation of a passing score on the exam results, applicants must submit an application fee of $100.00 to the Attorney General for their original commission. Additionally, they are responsible for getting an official notary seal engraved with their name, commission number, and words “Notary Public” and “State of Hawaii”.
- Before embarking on their official duties, a notary must pay for and execute an official surety bond of $1,000. This bond must be authorized by a judge from the circuit court and once approved, should be submitted to and filed in the office of the clerk at the judicial circuit where they reside.
- All newly appointed and commissioned Hawaii notaries public are required to immediately submit a literal or photocopied version of their notary commission certificate, an impression of their seal, and a sample of their official signature with the clerk from either the circuit court in which they reside or any other circuit court. A fee is applicable for filing these documents at all circuit courts.
Is notary training required to become a notary in Hawaii?
No official notary training is required in Hawaii to become a notary public.
However, it is strongly recommended that applicants obtain some education and/or training before starting their duties as a Notary Public. This will ensure a smooth transition into their new role and help them perform their job accurately and efficiently.
The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General has published a Notary Public Manual. It is available on the Attorney General’s website. All potential notaries are encouraged to read it.
Is a notary exam required to become a notary in Hawaii?
Yes, applicants must pass a comprehensive written examination covering practical and theoretical topics related to notary public practice in Hawaii.
The Department of the Attorney General administers the test.
It focuses on statutory laws and rules of procedure relating to such matters as the duties and responsibilities of a Notary Public.
How hard is to become a notary in Hawaii?
Becoming a notary public in Hawaii is not difficult, but it does require dedication and commitment.
The process involves filling out an online application, passing the Notary Public Exam, obtaining a surety bond to protect against potential wrongdoings, and filing the necessary documents with the Clerk of the Circuit Court.
To ensure success throughout this process, it is best to have a solid understanding of the laws related to notary public practice in Hawaii.
Additionally, potential applicants should consider taking a Notary Public class or studying the Notary Public Manual to gain further knowledge and experience.
With dedication and commitment, becoming a notary public in Hawaii can be achievable.
Do I need to purchase a surety bond to become a Hawaii notary public?
Yes, all newly appointed and commissioned notaries must purchase a surety bond before commencing their official duties.
The required amount for the surety bond is $1,000.
A judge must authorize this bond from the circuit court, and, once approved, it should be submitted to and filed in the office of the clerk at the judicial circuit where the notary resides.
Failure to submit a surety bond may result in a suspension or revocation of the notary’s commission.
Is a notary errors and omissions insurance policy required to become a notary in Hawaii?
No, a notary errors and omissions insurance policy is not required to become a Hawaii notary public in Hawaii.
However, it is highly recommended that all notaries carry an errors and omissions policy to protect against potential wrongdoings.
Such policies protect in the event of any mistakes or negligence during their official duties and can cover legal fees.
Notaries should research and compare policies to find the best one for their needs.
In addition, they should check with the insurance provider to ensure that the policy covers all of their duties as a notary public in Hawaii.
Do I need to purchase a notary seal (notary stamp) in Hawaii?
Yes, all notaries in Hawaii must purchase a notary seal (stamp) before performing any official duties.
Do I need to purchase a notary journal in Hawaii?
Yes, all notaries in Hawaii must purchase and maintain a notary journal.
This is used to record the official acts performed by the notary, such as oaths, affirmations, acknowledgments, and jurats.
How long is the term of a notary public commission in Hawaii?
The term of a notary public commission in Hawaii is four years.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Hawaii?
It costs $20 to apply, $100 to get your commission, $10 to take the exam, and $6 to file your commission.
If you are a government Notary, you don’t have to pay the application fee.
The notary bond should cost between $30-$40.
A notary stamp typically retails between $15-25, while a notary journal can cost anywhere from $10-50.
Additionally, you may want to stock up on extra pens, inks, and sticky notes for your office.
What notarial acts can a Hawaii notary public perform?
A Hawaii notary public can perform the following notarial acts:
- Taking an acknowledgment
- Administering an oath, affirmation, or affidavit
- Taking a deposition
- Noting a protest
Can I perform remote online notarization in Hawaii?
Ready to become a Remote Online Notary Public in Hawaii? Beginning January 1, 2021, Hawaii made it possible for notaries to register and offer remote online notarizations for a remotely located individual.
- Already be a commissioned Notary Public.
- Use a remote online notarization provider that meets state law requirements.
- You must register for and pass the state exam to perform online notarizations. There is also a $10 application fee that you will need to pay.
- Submit an application to the Hawaii Department of Attorney General.
How much can I charge as a notary in Hawaii?
Hawaii state law sets the maximum amount a notary public can charge for their services at $5 per notarial act and $25 for remote online notarizations. Hawaii does not set any maximum travel expenses for mobile notaries.
How do I become a Notary Signing Agent in Hawaii?
To become a Notary Signing Agent in Hawaii, you must first meet the requirements to become a notary public. You should then register with a Notary Signing Agent certification program.
Once certified, you can offer notary services to real estate and mortgage loan signings.
Is there a demand for a notary loan signing agent in Hawaii?
Yes, there is a demand for a notary loan signing agent in Hawaii.
The state has seen an increase in refinances and real estate transactions due to low interest rates, increasing the need for notary services.
In addition, many banks require documents to be notarized before they can be processed, which furthers the need for notary services.
To capitalize on this demand, it is vital for a Notary Signing Agent to be appropriately certified and listed with the major companies that provide signing services.
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