Hawaii Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Hawaii licenses contractors, electricians, and plumbers at the state level through the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Professional and Vocational Licensing (PVL) Division. Two boards share responsibility: the Contractors License Board (CLB) for Class A, B, and C contractor licenses, and the Board of Electricians and Plumbers (EP Board) for individual electrician and plumber licenses. State statutes HRS Chapter 444 (contractors) and HRS Chapter 448E (electricians and plumbers) establish the framework, with administrative rules providing added detail.
Contractor trade examinations are administered by PSI, while electrician and plumber examinations are administered by Prometric. Licensure is statewide; local building permits and business tax registrations may still be required where you perform work. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Hawaii below; this guide is updated periodically as additional topics are curated based on reader requests.
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Overview of Hawaii Contractor Licensing
The DCCA PVL Division coordinates licensing across multiple professional boards. For construction and building trades, the two primary bodies are the Contractors License Board and the Board of Electricians and Plumbers. The CLB regulates Class A General Engineering, Class B General Building, and numerous Class C specialty contractor classifications statewide under HRS Chapter 444 and Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) Title 16, Chapter 77.
The EP Board regulates individual electricians and plumbers under HRS Chapter 448E and HAR Chapter 16-80. Electrician and plumber candidates qualify through a combination of supervised experience and academic coursework (for electricians), and must pass Prometric-administered examinations. Contractor applicants qualify by designating a Responsible Managing Employee (RME) or qualifying individual, documenting supervisory experience, and passing PSI-administered trade and Business and Law exams.
Browse all Hawaii contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii regulates electrical work with 8 license types.
Journey Worker Electrician
The Journey Worker Electrician license authorizes residential and commercial wiring under Hawaii’s statewide framework. It is regulated by the Board of Electricians and Plumbers within the DCCA PVL Division.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least five years full-time and not less than 10,000 hours of supervised residential or commercial wiring experience.
- Education: 240 hours of electrical academic coursework accepted by a University of Hawaii Community College.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Journey Worker Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; open electrical code book provided by Prometric.
- Allowed materials: Prometric-provided code book; see Prometric bulletin for specifics.
- Retake policy: Reapply through the Board and Prometric per Board rules.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial; follow EP Board fee schedules and renewal notices.
Source: EP FAQs
Supervising Electrician
The Supervising Electrician credential (master-level) authorizes oversight and direction of electrical installations. It is issued statewide by the Board of Electricians and Plumbers.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least four years as a licensed journey worker electrician or equivalent as determined by the Board.
- Education: Coursework consistent with prior journey worker licensure pathways (UH Community College-accepted).
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Supervising Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; open code book provided by Prometric.
- Allowed materials: As listed in Prometric’s Hawaii bulletin.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board schedule.
Source: EP FAQs
Journey Worker Industrial Electrician
This license covers industrial electrical work in facilities such as plants and processing operations. The EP Board regulates qualification and examination statewide.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least four years and not less than 8,000 hours of industrial electrical work.
- Education: 200 hours of UH Community College-accepted industrial electrical coursework.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Journey Worker Industrial Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based exam; allowed references per Prometric bulletin (open code book).
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board cycle.
Source: EP FAQs
Supervising Industrial Electrician
The supervising industrial credential qualifies holders to oversee industrial electrical work and personnel. Licensure standards are set by the EP Board.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least three years as a licensed journey worker industrial electrician or equivalent as approved by the Board.
- Education: Industrial coursework consistent with journey worker industrial licensure pathway.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Supervising Industrial Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; allowed references per Prometric bulletin.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board cycle.
Source: EP FAQs
Journey Worker Specialty Electrician
This credential covers defined specialty electrical scopes as recognized by the EP Board. It requires focused specialty experience and coursework.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least three years and not less than 6,000 hours in the specialty.
- Education: 120 hours of UH Community College-accepted specialty coursework.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Journey Worker Specialty Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; allowed references per Prometric bulletin (open code book).
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board schedule.
Source: EP FAQs
Supervising Specialty Electrician
The supervising specialty credential authorizes oversight within the licensed specialty area. Standards are set by the EP Board statewide.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least two years as a licensed journey worker specialty electrician or equivalent approved by the Board.
- Education: Specialty coursework consistent with journey worker specialty pathway.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Supervising Specialty Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; allowed references per Prometric bulletin.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board cycle.
Source: EP FAQs
Maintenance Electrician
The Maintenance Electrician license covers electrical maintenance wiring. It serves facilities that require in-house electrical upkeep under state oversight.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least one year of electrical maintenance wiring experience.
- Education: 80 hours of UH Community College-accepted electrical coursework.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Maintenance Electrician Examination
- Format: Computer-based; allowed references per Prometric bulletin.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
- Initial License: $306
- Renewal: $306 (triennial cycle)
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial per EP Board cycle.
Source: EP FAQs
C-13 Electrical Contractor
Firms performing electrical contracting must be licensed as C-13 specialty contractors by the Contractors License Board. Applicants must qualify a Responsible Managing Employee (RME) or qualifying individual with supervisory electrical experience and pass both trade and Business and Law exams.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Typically at least four years of supervisory electrical contracting experience (RME/qualifier).
- Education: No specified classroom requirement; competence evidenced by experience and prior training/licensure.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-13 Electrical Contractor trade exam and Hawaii Contractor Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI bulletin.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability insurance is required; minimum limits are set by CLB rules and may vary by classification. Workers compensation coverage is required when employing workers.
Renewal
Biennial or as set by CLB rules for contractor license renewals.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
Plumbing Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii regulates plumbing work with 3 license types.
Journey Worker Plumber
The Journey Worker Plumber license authorizes UPC-compliant plumbing work under the statewide licensure program. The EP Board sets experience and exam requirements.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least five years full-time or not less than 10,000 hours as a journey/master plumber’s helper on UPC-compliant work.
- Education: Experience-based; no separate academic hour requirement specified.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Journey Worker Plumber Examination
- Format: Closed-book, computer-based.
- Allowed materials: No personal reference materials; content based on the Uniform Plumbing Code and Board topics.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii plumbing bulletin (via EP Board site).
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
Contact the Board of Electricians and Plumbers to confirm initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
Insurance is not required for this individual license; employer coverage may still be required where applicable.
Renewal
Triennial (per EP Board fee schedule cycles).
Source: EP Requirements & Application
Master Plumber
The Master Plumber license authorizes supervision and design/oversight of plumbing installations. The EP Board regulates experience and examination statewide.
Authority
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician
Eligibility
- Experience: At least two years registered practice as a licensed journey worker plumber (HI or another state), plus supervisory experience as determined by the Board.
- Education: Experience-based (no separate academic hour requirement specified).
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: Prometric
- Exam: Master Plumber Examination
- Format: Closed-book, computer-based.
- Reference: Prometric Hawaii plumbing bulletin (via EP Board site).
Fees
- Application: $40
- Examination: $95
Contact the Board of Electricians and Plumbers to confirm initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
Not required for this individual license.
Renewal
Triennial.
Source: EP Requirements & Application
C-37 Plumbing Contractor
Businesses contracting plumbing work must hold the C-37 specialty contractor license from the Contractors License Board. Qualification is experience-based and requires passing PSI-administered examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Generally four years of supervisory plumbing experience for the qualifying RME/individual.
- Education: No explicit classroom requirement; competence shown through experience and application documentation.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-37 Plumbing trade exam and Hawaii Contractor Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI bulletin.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required consistent with CLB standards.
Renewal
As set by CLB for contractor licenses (typically biennial).
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
HVAC Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii regulates HVAC contractors with 3 license types.
C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor
The C-52 license covers warm-air heating, cooling, and ventilating systems, including air conditioning work. Applicants qualify through supervisory experience, Board approval, and PSI examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Typically four years of supervisory HVAC experience documented in CLB applications.
- Education: Experience-based; no specific Board academic requirement is stated.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-52 trade exam and Hawaii Contractor Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI bulletin.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability insurance is required; workers compensation coverage is required when employing workers.
Renewal
Contractor license renewal cycle set by CLB (commonly biennial).
Source: Hawaii Admin. Rules – Specialty Classifications
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Hawaii C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor License Practice Test.
C-40 Refrigeration Contractor
The C-40 license authorizes installation and service of refrigeration systems. Applicants qualify via supervisory experience, Board approval, and passage of PSI examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Typically four years of supervisory refrigeration experience documented in CLB forms.
- Education: Experience-based; no specific formal schooling requirement is stated.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-40 Refrigeration trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI bulletin.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required consistent with CLB rules.
Renewal
Biennial or as set by CLB.
Source: CLB Current Licenses by Class
C-4 Boiler, Hot-Water Heating, and Steam Fitting Contractor
The C-4 license covers installation and fitting of boiler, hot-water heating/supply, and steam systems. Qualification is through supervisory experience, CLB approval, and PSI exams.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Generally four years of supervisory experience in the covered systems.
- Education: Experience-based; technical education not specifically required by CLB.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-4 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI bulletin.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required under CLB rules.
Renewal
CLB renewal cycle (commonly biennial).
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
General Contractor Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii general contractor licensing includes 2 types.
A General Engineering Contractor
Class A contractors focus on fixed works requiring specialized engineering knowledge—such as infrastructure, utilities, and heavy civil projects. Licensure requires an experienced qualifier and passage of PSI examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: At least four years of supervisory general engineering experience (qualifying individual).
- Education: No specific degree required; competence established via experience.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: Class A trade exam and Hawaii Contractor Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability insurance is required; minimum limits are set by CLB rules (Class A may require higher limits). Workers compensation is required when employing workers.
Renewal
Set by CLB (commonly biennial).
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Hawaii A General Engineering Contractor License Practice Test.
B General Building Contractor
Class B contractors construct or supervise structures for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons, animals, or property. Applicants must document supervisory experience and pass PSI-administered trade and Business and Law exams.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: At least four years of supervisory general building experience.
- Education: No specific academic degree; competence shown by experience.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: Class B trade exam and Hawaii Contractor Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability insurance is required at CLB-specified minimums; workers compensation is required when applicable.
Renewal
CLB renewal cycle (commonly biennial).
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Hawaii B General Building Contractor License Practice Test.
Roofing Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii regulates roofing contractors with 1 license type.
C-42 Roofing Contractor
The C-42 license authorizes the installation and repair of roofing systems across materials and methods recognized by the CLB. Qualification is experience-based and requires passage of PSI examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Generally four years of supervisory roofing experience documented in CLB applications.
- Education: Experience-based; no explicit formal classroom requirement beyond competence.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-42 Roofing trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book with permitted references per PSI.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required under CLB rules.
Renewal
CLB renewal cycle (commonly biennial).
Specialty Trade Licenses in Hawaii
Hawaii regulates specialty trades with 5 license types.
C-20 Fire Protection Contractor
The C-20 license covers fire protection systems installation and maintenance as defined by CLB scope. Applicants qualify through supervisory experience, CLB approval, and PSI examinations.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Typically four years of supervisory fire protection experience.
- Education: Experience-based; no specific classroom requirement stated by CLB.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-20 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required per CLB rules.
Renewal
CLB contractor license renewal cycle.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
C-16 Elevator Contractor
The C-16 license authorizes elevator installation, modernization, and maintenance. Applicants must document supervisory experience and pass PSI exams.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Four years of supervisory elevator work.
- Education: Experience-based; no specific classroom requirement stated by CLB.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-16 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage are required per CLB rules.
Renewal
CLB contractor license renewal cycle.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
C-19 Asbestos Contractor
The C-19 license covers asbestos abatement contracting under CLB scope. Applicants must document supervisory abatement experience and pass PSI exams; additional health/environmental training or certifications may be required by other agencies.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Four years of supervisory asbestos abatement experience documented per CLB requirements.
- Education: Experience-based for CLB; separate agency training/certifications may apply.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-19 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation are required; additional environmental liability may be required by other agencies.
Renewal
CLB contractor license renewal schedule.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
C-27 Landscaping Contractor
The C-27 license covers landscaping installation and related site work. Qualification is experience-based, with PSI examinations required after CLB approval.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Typically four years of supervisory landscaping experience.
- Education: Experience-based; no formal academic requirement stated by CLB.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-27 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage required; separate pesticide applicator certification may be required for chemical use by other authorities.
Renewal
CLB contractor license renewal cycle.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
C-32 Ornamental, Guardrail, and Fencing Contractor
The C-32 license authorizes installation of ornamental metal, guardrails, and fencing systems. Applicants must document supervisory experience and pass PSI exams after CLB approval.
Authority
Contractors License Board – https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Eligibility
- Experience: Four years of supervisory experience in ornamental, guardrail, and fencing work.
- Education: Experience-based; no Board-mandated schooling requirement.
- Age: Minimum 18.
Examination
- Provider: PSI
- Exams: C-32 trade exam and Business and Law exam
- Format: Two-part, computer-based; closed-book per PSI rules.
- Passing score: 75%
- Reference: PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
Fees
- Application: $50
- Examination: $150
Contact the Contractors License Board to confirm current initial and renewal license fees.
Insurance
General liability and workers compensation coverage required under CLB rules.
Renewal
CLB contractor license renewal cycle.
Source: CLB RME Application Instructions
Application Process
- Determine whether the work scope requires a Class A General Engineering, Class B General Building, or specific Class C specialty contractor license under HRS Chapter 444 and HAR Title 16, Chapter 77.
- Identify and designate a Responsible Managing Employee (RME) or qualifying individual with at least four years of supervisory experience in the relevant trade and ensure they meet CLB minimum qualifications.
- Obtain and complete the appropriate CLB application form (e.g., RME, sole proprietor, or entity application), including detailed experience verification affidavits and any required financial statements.
- Submit the completed application, supporting documentation, and application fees to the Contractors License Board by the published deadline for the desired Board meeting.
- Await Board review; if approved for examination, receive an examination approval letter specifying the trade and Business and Law examinations for which the applicant is eligible and the deadline to pass (typically six months from approval).
- Register directly with PSI Services, LLC using the exam approval information to schedule the Business and Law and trade examinations at an authorized PSI test center and pay the exam fees.
- Sit for and pass the PSI Business and Law examination and the applicable trade examination within the Board’s eligibility window.
- After passing exams, complete remaining licensure requirements including proof of general liability insurance, workers compensation coverage (if applicable), contractor’s bond, and any tax clearance documents required by CLB.
- Submit final licensing documentation and fees to CLB and await license issuance; once approved, maintain the license by renewing on the CLB schedule and complying with ongoing requirements.
Timeline: Initial contractor application submission through CLB review, PSI examination, and final license issuance commonly spans several months; the Board typically grants a six-month window from exam approval to pass required examinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Hawaii?
Plan for several months from application submission to license issuance. After CLB approval, PSI grants an eligibility window (commonly six months) to pass the trade and Business and Law exams before proceeding to final documentation and issuance.
Can I transfer my license from another state to Hawaii?
Hawaii does not offer formal reciprocity for contractor or electrician/plumber licenses. Applicants typically must meet Hawaii’s experience criteria and pass the required state examinations through PSI (contractors) or Prometric (electricians/plumbers).
What happens if I fail the exam?
Contractor candidates may retake failed PSI exam parts subject to PSI and CLB retake policies and fees. Electrician and plumber candidates test with Prometric and may reapply to retest in accordance with EP Board and Prometric rules.
Do I need insurance?
Yes for contractor licenses: CLB requires general liability insurance and, when applicable, workers compensation coverage. Individual EP Board electrician and plumber licenses do not require general liability insurance, though employers must maintain workers compensation where required.
How do I renew my license?
Contractor licenses renew on the CLB schedule (commonly biennial). Electrician and plumber licenses renew triennially under the EP Board’s fee cycle. Always review current renewal notices and fee schedules from the boards.
What if my city has requirements beyond what’s shown here?
Licensure is issued statewide by DCCA PVL boards; however, local building permits, inspections, and business tax registrations still apply. Verify project-specific permit requirements with your local building department before starting work.
Where can I find practice tests for Hawaii exams?
We offer comprehensive, downloadable PDF practice tests for Hawaii contractor licenses. Each guide typically contains 1,500–2,500 code-relevant questions with complete answer keys and reference locators pointing to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace with no time or use limits. Browse Hawaii contractor practice tests.
Hawaii · Practice tests
Hawaii contractor license practice tests
The Hawaii practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
- Hawaii A General Engineering Contractor License Practice Test
- Hawaii B General Building Contractor License Practice Test
- Hawaii Business and Law Contractor License Practice Test
- Hawaii C-31A Cement Concrete Contractor License Exam Practice Test
- Hawaii C-33 Painting and Decorating Contractor License Exam Practice Test
- Hawaii C-51 Tile Contractor License Practice Test
- Hawaii C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor License Practice Test
- Installing Hardwood Flooring NOFMA - Reference Practice Test
- National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017 Practice Test
Related Official Resources
Official Sources for Further Details:
-
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs – Professional and Vocational Licensing Division (PVL)
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Contractors License Board – DCCA Hawaii
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Contractors License Board Examination Page
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor/application-deadline-examination-dates/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
PSI Services, LLC Testing Services – Hawaii DCCA PVL
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/psi/
Official Board Site/Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Board of Electricians and Plumbers – DCCA Hawaii
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/electrician/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Requirements for Examination and License – Electricians and Plumbers (Hawaii DCCA PVL)
https://cca.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Require-App-for-Electrician-Plumber_11.25.pdf
Fee Schedule/Licensing Requirements | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Frequently Asked Questions – Electricians & Plumbers (EP-FAQs_07-18)
https://cca.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EP-FAQs_07-18.pdf
Official Board FAQ | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Chapter 448E – Electricians and Plumbers (HRS 448E)
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/files/2013/08/HRS-448E-ELECTRICIANS-AND-PLUMBERS-0120.pdf
State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Requirements for License – Contractor (RME Application) – DCCA PVL
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/files/2025/06/Require-App-for-Contractor-RME_6.25R2.pdf
Application Instructions | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Description of Contractor License Classifications – Hawaii CLB
https://cca.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/DescriptionofContractorLicenseClassifications-2.pdf
Classification Description | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Hawaii Electrical Licensing Information Bulletin – Prometric
https://www.prometric.com/files/HIElectricalCIB.pdf
Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
PSI Test-Takers – Hawaii Trade Examinations
https://test-takers.psiexams.com/hitrade
Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
CT Current Licenses by Class – Contractors License Board
https://cca.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CT-Current-Licenses-by-Class-2025-07-15-08-11-00.pdf
License Roster | Accessed: 2026-09-03 -
Contractors License Board Meeting Minutes – CLB_250221
https://cca.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CLB_250221.pdf
Board Minutes | Accessed: 2026-09-03
Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:
- Website: https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl
- Phone: 808-586-3000
- Address: 335 Merchant Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Permitting: Licensure is statewide in Hawaii; separate local building permits, inspections, and business registrations may still be required for projects.
