HI Notary Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements 2

Question 1

A notarized document will be sent to a foreign country for use abroad. What additional certification may be required on top of the notarial seal?

Accepted Answer

An apostille or authentication certificate from the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General or Lieutenant Governor's office

Answer

For international use, an apostille (for Hague Convention countries) or an authentication certificate may be required to validate the notary's authority in a foreign jurisdiction.

Question 2

If a Hawaii notary's ink stamp seal impression is partially smudged on a document, what should the notary do?

Accepted Answer

Re-stamp with a clean impression in a nearby area and note the correction

Answer

If the initial impression is unclear, the notary may make a second clean impression nearby and note this in the journal — the key is that a clear, reproducible impression exists on the document.

Question 3

A Hawaii notary retires mid-commission and surrenders their commission. What should they do with their seal?

Accepted Answer

Destroy the seal immediately upon resignation

Answer

Upon resigning the commission, the notary should destroy the seal to prevent unauthorized use.

Question 4

Can two Hawaii notaries working in the same office share a single official seal?

Accepted Answer

No — each notary must have their own individual seal bearing their own name and commission details

Answer

Each notary must have their own seal, as the seal bears the individual notary's name and commission details.

Question 5

What shape must a Hawaii notary's official seal be?

Accepted Answer

Either a circle or rectangle, as specified by HRS §456-6

Answer

Under HRS §456-6, Hawaii notary seals may be either circular or rectangular in shape.

(HI Notary) Hawaii Notary Exam Practice Test

(HI Notary) Hawaii Notary Exam Practice Test

HI Notary Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements 2