Getting your Certification in Hawaiʻi
To become a certified shorthand reporter in Hawaii, you must complete an accredited court reporting program, pass a national certification exam (such as the NCRA’s Certified Shorthand Reporter exam), and apply for certification with the Hawaii State Judiciary. Ongoing professional development is typically required to maintain certification.
How to Get Certified As A Court Reporter in Hawaii
To become a certified shorthand reporter in Hawaii, you must complete an accredited court reporting program that teaches stenography, legal terminology, and transcription skills. These programs typically take 2-4 years and prepare you for certification exams. After completing your training, you must pass a national certification exam, such as the Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) exam offered by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), which includes written tests and a speed test (usually around 225 words per minute). Once certified, you can apply for certification with the Hawaii State Judiciary or the appropriate state authority. Ongoing professional development is often required to maintain certification, and employment opportunities exist in both the legal field (courtrooms, depositions) and beyond (freelance work, closed captioning).
Qualifications
Requirements to become a certified shorthand reporter in Hawaii are defined in the Rules Governing Court Reporting in the State of Hawai‘i.
- Be of good moral character;
- Demonstrate reasonable proficiency in making verbatim records of judicial or related proceedings. For the purpose of this Rule, the applicant’s demonstration of reasonable proficiency shall be determined by
- the applicant’s ability to pass an examination for certification given by the board; and
- proof the reporter earned the designation “Registered Professional Reporter (RPR)” from the National Court Reporters Association;
- Be in compliance with these Rules Governing Court Reporting in the State of Hawai‘i;
- Pay the appropriate application fee established by the board.
Resources
Steps to Get Certified in Hawai‘i
Get RPR Designation through National Court Reporters Association (NCRA)
The Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) is NCRA’s foundational certification designed for entry-level freelance and official reporters, and is the required level of competancy to work in the state of Hawaii.
Complete Hawaii CSR Application
Complete the applicaiton for certification
Schedule Testing Appointment
Add information about scheduling test
Renewing Your Certification In Hawaii
Certified Shorthand Reporters (CSRs) in Hawaii must renew their license periodically to maintain active status. To ensure your certification remains current, please follow these steps:
Complete Continuing Education
CSRs are required to complete a specified number of continuing education (CE) hours as outlined by the Hawaii State Judiciary or the Hawaii Board of Court Reporting. These hours should focus on topics related to court reporting, legal terminology, ethics, or technology updates in the field.
Submit Renewal Application
Complete and submit the renewal application. Ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Pay the Renewal Fee
Submit the appropriate renewal fee with your application.
Submit Proof of Continuing Education
Provide documentation of completed continuing education courses. This may include certificates, transcripts, or course outlines.
Submit Renewal on Time
Make sure to submit the renewal application before current certification expires to avoid any lapse in certification. Late renewals may be subject to additional fees or penalties.
For more information or if you have questions about the renewal process, updates or resources, please contact csrboardhawaii@gmail.com.
