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Contractor License in Hawaii

State license

Yes. Hawaii requires a state license from the Contractors License Board (under the DCCA Professional & Vocational Licensing division) for anyone who contracts to build, repair, or improve any structure. It is a statewide license, not local, and it covers general and specialty trades under one board.

Quick facts

When a license is neededA license is required for contracting work regardless of a fixed dollar threshold; handyman-type work under $1,500 (including labor and materials) that does not require a permit is exempt.
ExperienceMinimum of 4 years of full-time supervisory experience in the classification applied for, within the last 10 years.
ExamYes. A two-part exam administered by PSI: a Business & Law exam and a trade/classification-specific exam.
BondYes. A surety bond is required (Bond Form CT-09); the amount is set by the Board based on the applicant's financials and scope of work rather than a single fixed statutory figure.
InsuranceYes. General liability insurance required (commonly cited minimums of $100,000/$300,000 bodily injury and $50,000 property damage per HAR), plus workers' compensation if the contractor has employees.
Fees$50 non-refundable application fee per application; exam is $75 per part ($150 for both). Biennial renewal approximately $338 (active entity/sole proprietor), $208 (active RME), $160 (inactive).
RenewalBiennial. Licenses renew by September 30 of every even-numbered year. Active entities/sole proprietors must maintain a current Hawaii tax clearance. Continuing education requirements vary by classification.
ReciprocityNone. Hawaii does not maintain reciprocal licensing agreements with other states, and does not accept the NASCLA exam; applicants must pass Hawaii's own exams.
Main agencyHawaii DCCA, Professional and Vocational Licensing
Official sitehttps://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor/application_publication/
Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the board and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.
Apply / official Hawaii board →

License classifications

How to get licensed in Hawaii

  1. Confirm your classification (A, B, or C) and license type (Entity, Sole Proprietor, or Responsible Managing Employee/RME).
  2. Document at least 4 years of qualifying full-time supervisory experience using the Chronological History of Projects form.
  3. Download and complete the correct application (Entity, Sole Proprietor, or RME) plus any additional/RME designation forms, and pay the $50 application fee.
  4. Submit the application, fee, and all supporting documents on or before the first Tuesday of the month two months prior to the Board meeting.
  5. After approval, register with PSI and pass both the Business & Law and trade exams ($75 each) within 6 months of eligibility.
  6. Submit the required surety bond (Bond Form CT-09) and proof of general liability (and workers' comp) insurance via the DCCA insurance portal to activate the license.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Class A, B, and C licenses in Hawaii?

Class A (General Engineering) covers infrastructure like roads and utilities; Class B (General Building) covers structures requiring two or more unrelated trades; Class C (Specialty) covers a single specialty trade, with 42 distinct C-classifications such as C-49 Swimming Pool.

Do I need to pass an exam to get a Hawaii contractor license?

Yes. You must pass a two-part PSI exam: a Business & Law portion and a trade-specific portion for your classification. There is no waiver, and Hawaii does not accept the NASCLA exam.

How much experience do I need?

At least 4 years of full-time supervisory experience in the specific classification you are applying for, earned within the last 10 years, documented on the Chronological History of Projects form.

Does Hawaii offer reciprocity with other states?

No. Hawaii has no reciprocal agreements. An out-of-state contractor must meet all Hawaii requirements and pass Hawaii's exams.

How often do I renew?

Every two years, by September 30 of even-numbered years. You must keep a current Hawaii tax clearance and meet any continuing education tied to your classification.

Sources

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Guide compiled from official Hawaii licensing-board sources. Verify current details with the board before acting; licensing rules change.