Can a notary public charge for travel expenses?

In Hawaii, a notary public is not permitted to charge for travel expenses when performing notarizations. The fees that a notary can charge are strictly limited to the fees established by law for the notarial act itself. The law specifies the maximum amount a notary can charge for various notarial services, and these fees do not include travel or other ancillary charges.

This means that a notary should only charge the fees that are allowed under the law for the act of notarization and not for any travel time or expenses incurred to reach a client. Such restrictions ensure that notarial services remain accessible and standardized across the state. Consequently, any notion that notaries can impose travel fees contradicts the legal framework governing their practices.

Understanding this regulatory landscape is essential for notaries in Hawaii to ensure compliance and maintain the integrity of their services.