Do I need a contractor license in Hawaii?

Yes. Hawaii requires a state-level contractor license for projects above $1,000 or any project requiring a building permit. The administering board is Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) / Contractors License Board.

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HIState License Required

Hawaii Contractor License

Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) / Contractors License Board

Hawaii requires a state-level contractor license for projects above $1,000 or any project requiring a building permit. Exam required. NASCLA not accepted. Administered by Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) / Contractors License Board.

Quick Reference

GC License Required: Yes
Threshold: $1,000 or any project requiring a building permit
Exam Required: Yes
NASCLA Accepted: No

Official Board Website

Fees

Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable)
License Fee: $494 - $633 depending on licensing period
Renewal Fee: $353 biennially (by September 30 of even-numbered years)

Key Facts

Classifications include General Engineering (A), General Building (B), and Specialty (C)
License fees vary based on when in the 2-year cycle you are licensed
Surety bond amount is determined case-by-case by the Board
Bond must be maintained for at least 1 year before requesting a waiver

Insurance Requirements

General Liability

$100,000 per person / $300,000 per occurrence bodily injury; $50,000 property damage

Workers Comp

Required for all contractors with employees

Surety Bond

$5,000 minimum surety bond (set case-by-case by the Board)

Continuing Education

Not required

Specialty Licenses Required

Electrical (C-13)Plumbing (C-37)HVAC (C-16)Roofing (C-42a/b)Painting (C-33)Concrete (C-32)

How to Apply

1Submit application to DCCA Contractors License Board with $50 fee
2Demonstrate 4 years of experience as a journeyman or foreman
3Pass the trade exam and business/law exam (administered by PSI, 75% passing)
4Obtain bodily injury and property damage liability insurance
5Obtain surety bond (minimum $5,000, amount set by the Board)
6Pay license fee ($494-$633 depending on cycle)