Hawaii Remote Online Notarization (RON) Laws

RON Enacted

Effective December 31, 2023

Quick Facts

Status: RON Enacted
Year Enacted: 2023
Statute: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 456-1 et seq.
Bill Number: HB 1094

Hawaii RON Law Overview

In 2023, Hawaii enacted permanent remote online notarization (RON) legislation (HB 1094) under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 456-1 et seq.. The law took effect on December 31, 2023. This landmark law enables notaries commissioned in Hawaii to perform notarizations using two-way audio-video technology, allowing signers to appear before a notary remotely from anywhere. Hawaii's RON framework establishes requirements for identity verification, electronic journaling, and tamper-evident technology to ensure the integrity of every online notarization.

Legal Citations

Statute

Haw. Rev. Stat. § 456-1 et seq.

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Hawaii RON Requirements

Hawaii's RON requirements mandate a live audio-video session for every remote notarization. Credential analysis of a government-issued photo ID is required to verify the signer's identity. The signer must successfully complete knowledge-based authentication (KBA), answering personal questions generated from public records and credit data to confirm their identity. The state requires notaries to maintain secure electronic journals and apply tamper-evident technology to ensure document integrity after signing. Audio-video recordings of each RON session must be retained for at least 10 years.

Audio-video required: Yes
Tamper-evident seal: Required
Electronic journal: Required
Recording retention: 10 years
Credential analysis: Required
KBA required: Yes
Commissioned in state: Required
RON endorsement: Required

Interstate Recognition

Hawaii generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states that have enacted equivalent RON legislation. Documents notarized via RON in another state may be accepted for recording and legal purposes in Hawaii, subject to compliance with the originating state's RON requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote online notarization legal in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii has enacted permanent RON legislation in 2023 under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 456-1 et seq.. Remote online notarization is fully legal and authorized for Hawaii-commissioned notaries who meet the state's RON requirements.

What are the identity verification requirements for RON in Hawaii?

Hawaii requires credential analysis of a government-issued photo ID and knowledge-based authentication (KBA) for all remote online notarizations. The signer must correctly answer personal questions generated from authoritative data sources.

Do I need a special endorsement to perform RON in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii requires notaries to obtain a RON endorsement or registration in addition to their standard notary commission before performing remote online notarizations.

What technology is required for RON in Hawaii?

Hawaii requires RON sessions to use real-time two-way audio-video communication. Documents must be sealed with tamper-evident technology. An electronic journal must be maintained for all remote notarizations. Session recordings must be retained for 10 years.

Does Hawaii accept out-of-state RON?

Hawaii generally recognizes remote online notarizations performed by notaries commissioned in other states with equivalent RON laws. However, specific recording offices may have additional requirements.