Hawaii Notary Bond$1,000 • 4-Year Term

According to Hawaii Revised Statutes §456-2, Hawaii requires a $1,000 notary bond. This one-time premium covers your entire commission period. Most applicants qualify for instant approval.

Yes, Hawaii requires all new notary applicants to pass a written, closed-book examination covering Hawaii Revised Statutes, Hawaii Administrative Rules, and practical aspects of notary practice. The exam costs $10 and is administered monthly on Oahu and periodically on neighbor islands. Renewing notaries who previously passed the exam are exempt.

Yes! Hawaii notary bonds typically qualify for instant approval with no credit check for most applicants. Your credit score generally does not affect approval or pricing for these small surety bonds.

Hawaii notary commissions are valid for 4 years. You must renew your bond and commission before expiration to continue serving as a notary in Hawaii.

Hawaii law requires each notary bond to be approved by a judge of the circuit court before filing. After obtaining your bond, it must be presented to a circuit court judge for approval, then filed with the circuit court clerk of the judicial circuit where you reside. This unique requirement distinguishes Hawaii from most other states.

After your $1,000 bond is approved by a circuit court judge, you must file it with the clerk of the circuit court in the judicial circuit where you reside. Hawaii has four judicial circuits: First Circuit (Oahu), Second Circuit (Maui, Molokai, Lanai), Third Circuit (Hawaii Island), and Fifth Circuit (Kauai). Contact your local circuit court clerk for specific filing procedures.

Hawaii law sets maximum notary fees: $5 per signature for acknowledgments and jurats, $5 for administering an oath, and $5 for certifying a copy. Many notaries charge below these maximums. Mobile notaries often add travel fees for on-site services, which are not regulated by statute.

While not required by Hawaii law, E&O insurance is recommended for notaries handling high-value real estate or tourism industry documents. Hawaii's $1,000 bond only protects the public - if a claim is paid, you must reimburse the surety company. E&O insurance protects you personally from financial loss.