Which phrase is required to appear on the Notarial seal?

• A. State of Hawaii
• B. United States of America
• C. Hawaii Notary
• D. Notary Public of Hawaii

Answer: (A)

Notarial seals show the authority behind the notary’s act. In Hawaii, that authority comes from the State, so the seal must include the jurisdiction by displaying the words State of Hawaii. This makes it clear that the notarial act is governed by Hawaii notary laws. The federal designation United States of America isn’t appropriate for a notarial seal, and while phrases like Hawaii Notary or Notary Public of Hawaii might convey some idea of status, they don’t identify the specific state jurisdiction the seal represents in the standard format used on official seals. Along with the state designation, a Hawaii notary’s seal typically includes the notary’s name and commission expiration, reinforcing the official, state-based authority of the notarization.