Hawaii Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Hawaii licenses contractors at the state level through the Hawaii Contractors License Board within the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA). If you plan to bid, contract, or advertise to perform construction work in Hawaii, you will need the appropriate contractor classification and, in most cases, a designated Responsible Managing Employee (RME) who meets the experience and exam requirements.

This guide summarizes the 2025 requirements for the major trades—Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC (Ventilating/Air Conditioning and Refrigeration), General Building/Engineering, Roofing, and select Specialty classifications—based on the Board’s official publications. You’ll find experience requirements, exam details, fees, insurance, renewals, application steps, and official source links for each license type.

In Hawaii, cities and counties generally do not issue separate contractor licenses. Local building departments will still require permits and inspections, but the contractor licensing itself is administered by the state Board.

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Overview of Hawaii Contractor Licensing

The Hawaii Contractors License Board within the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA) regulates contractor licensing statewide. The Board approves applications, administers classifications (A – General Engineering, B – General Building, and numerous C specialty classifications), and coordinates required trade and business/law exams through PSI. Most applicants must demonstrate four years of full-time supervisory experience within the last ten years, pass exams, and meet financial and insurance requirements.

Hawaii’s contractor licensing framework emphasizes the entity (contractor license) and the Responsible Managing Employee (RME) who qualifies the entity for a specific classification. Unlike some mainland states, Hawaii does not issue state-level journeyman/master trade licenses for electricians or plumbers; field personnel work under the company’s licensed classification and RME. Verification of experience through a detailed Chronological History of Projects and notarized references is central to eligibility for most classifications.

Licensing is handled at the state level. Counties (Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii) and local jurisdictions require permits and inspections but do not issue separate contractor licenses for the major trades covered in this guide. Always confirm current requirements with the Board and review local permitting rules before starting work.

Primary Licensing Authority

Hawaii Contractors License Board, Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA)

Browse all Hawaii contractor license practice tests →

Electrician Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates electrical work with 4 license types:

Note: In Hawaii, contractor licensing is issued by the state Board (DCCA). Cities/counties do not license electrical contractors; however, local permits and inspections still apply.

C-13 Electrical Contractor

The C-13 classification allows contracting for electrical systems and work within the scope of Hawaii’s codes and rules. The entity must employ an RME who meets the experience and exam requirements to qualify for the C-13 classification.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience within the past 10 years; verifiable and relevant to electrical work.
  • Documentation: Chronological History of Projects with notarized certifications from licensed contractor(s) you worked under.
  • Education: None specified beyond experience.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-13 Electrical Contractor Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice, closed book
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: National Electrical Code; Hawaii Administrative Rules; Hawaii Revised Statutes
  • Topics: NEC; Hawaii electrical contracting law; safety; estimating; employee and jobsite management
  • Retake Policy: If failed, may retake next available exam after reapplying

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year cycle) or $494.00 (odd-year cycle)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability; workers’ compensation required if employees.
  • Renewal: Biennial (June 30, every even-numbered year). No CE specified by the Board for this classification.

Official C-13 information and forms

Supervisory RME (Responsible Managing Employee) for C-13 Electrical

The RME is the qualifying individual responsible for the electrical operations under the C-13 license. The RME must pass both the trade and business/law exams and meet the experience requirement.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time experience in the electrical trade.
  • Documentation: Employer certification and project history.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI. Trade Exam + Contractor’s Law Exam.

Exam Details

  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 (trade) + 100 (law); typically 4 hours per part
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Same as C-13 plus business and law references
  • Topics: Trade knowledge; Hawaii business law; construction safety; contract law
  • Retake Policy: Must reapply; $75.00 per part

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00 per part
  • Initial License: Varies (covered under company license)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Not applicable to the RME role itself.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official RME information

C-15 Electronic Systems Contractor

The C-15 classification covers low-voltage and electronic systems such as fire alarm, signal, data, and telecom systems within Hawaii’s codes and standards.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in electronic systems within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Employment/project history with verified certifications.
  • Education: None specified beyond experience.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-15 Low Voltage Systems Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice, closed book
  • Questions/Time: 70 questions, 2.5 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Industry standards; Hawaii Administrative Rules/Statutes
  • Topics: Low-voltage wiring/code; fire alarm/signal systems; data/telecom; state/federal requirements
  • Retake Policy: May retake after reapplying; $75.00 per attempt

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE requirement specified.

Official C-15 information

C-62 Pole & Line Contractor

The C-62 covers pole installation and overhead line work consistent with OSHA and Hawaii regulations. Supervisory experience in lineman/pole and line work is required.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time experience in pole/line during the last 10 years.
  • Documentation: Project history and verified references/certifications.
  • Education: None beyond experience.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-62 Pole & Line Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 60 questions, 2 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: OSHA standards; industry references; HRS/HAR
  • Topics: Pole installation; overhead line work; safety and OSHA; state regulations
  • Retake Policy: Reapply and repay exam fee

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE requirement specified.

Official C-62 information

Need focused help for Hawaii electrical classifications? Browse Hawaii contractor license practice tests and study material.

Plumbing Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates plumbing work with 2 license types:

Note: Plumbing contractor licensing is administered by the state Board. Counties do not issue separate plumbing contractor licenses; local permits and inspections are still required.

C-37 Plumbing Contractor

The C-37 classification covers contracting for plumbing installations and related systems per the Uniform Plumbing Code and Hawaii rules. An RME is required to qualify the entity.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in plumbing within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Chronological project history and certified references for Board review.
  • Education: None specified beyond experience.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-37 Plumbing Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice, closed book
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC); Hawaii statutes and rules
  • Topics: Plumbing code; installation; testing; plumbing law; safety
  • Retake Policy: Reapply; $75.00 per exam

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability; workers’ compensation if employees.
  • Renewal: Biennial; Board does not specify CE.

Official C-37 information

RME (Responsible Managing Employee) for C-37 Plumbing

The RME is the qualifying individual for the C-37 classification and must pass the trade and business/law exams. The RME’s experience and documentation are reviewed by the Board.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time plumbing trade experience.
  • Documentation: Employer/contractor certification and project documentation.
  • Education: None beyond experience.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI (trade + Contractor’s Law Exam).

Exam Details

  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 (trade) + 100 (law); typically 4 hours per part
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: UPC; Hawaii statutes; construction business materials
  • Topics: Code; safety; business law
  • Retake Policy: Must reapply

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00 per exam
  • Initial License: N/A (falls under entity)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Not applicable to the RME role itself.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official RME information

For more Hawaii plumbing exam resources, browse Hawaii contractor license practice tests and study material.

HVAC Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates HVAC contractors with 2 license types:

Note: HVAC contractor licensing is state-issued through the Board. Counties do not issue separate HVAC contractor licenses; permitting is handled locally.

C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor

The C-52 classification covers ventilating and air conditioning systems in accordance with the International Mechanical Code, ASHRAE standards, and Hawaii regulations.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in HVAC/ventilating within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Chronological History of Projects and verification letters.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-52 Ventilating and A/C Contractor Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: IMC; ASHRAE handbooks; Hawaii statutes
  • Topics: HVAC installation and code; ventilation systems; safety; business law
  • Retake Policy: Reapply; $75.00 per attempt

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official C-52 information

Exam Prep:

Hawaii C-52 practice test in PDF format with 1,500–2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and precise code reference locators. Study offline with no time or use limits.

Hawaii C-52 Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor License Practice Test

C-40 Refrigeration Contractor

The C-40 classification covers refrigeration systems and related work per IMC/ASHRAE and Hawaii rules. Supervisory experience and Board-approved examination are required.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time experience in refrigeration within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Project history with certified references.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-40 Refrigeration Contractor Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: IMC; ASHRAE; Hawaii statutes and rules
  • Topics: Refrigeration systems; safety; regulation; business law
  • Retake Policy: Reapply and pay new exam fee

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official C-40 information

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General Contractor Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates general contractors with 2 license types:

Note: General contractor licensing (A and B) is issued by the state Board. Local jurisdictions will require permits but do not issue separate contractor licenses.

A General Engineering Contractor

The A classification covers general engineering construction (e.g., infrastructure, utilities, heavy civil) per Hawaii statutes and rules. Applicants must document supervisory experience and pass both trade and business/law exams.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in general engineering work within the last 10 years.
  • Documentation: Detailed Chronological Project History and reference letters.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI (trade + Hawaii Contractor’s Law Exam).

Exam Details

  • Exams: General Engineering (A) Exam + Hawaii Contractor’s Law Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 (trade) + 100 (law); 4 hours per part
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Hawaii statutes and rules; general engineering code texts
  • Topics: Engineering construction; project management; state law/business practices
  • Retake Policy: May retake after reapplying

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00 per part
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability; Board may require bond; workers’ compensation if employees.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official A-General information

Exam Prep:

Get the Hawaii A-General practice test in PDF format with 1,500–2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to the statutes and code sections you’ll need. Study offline with no limits.

Hawaii A General Engineering Contractor License Practice Test

B General Building Contractor

The B classification covers general building construction (vertical and horizontal construction) under the IBC and Hawaii rules. Documentation of supervisory building experience is required.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in building construction within the last 10 years.
  • Documentation: Chronological Project History with verified employer/project references.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI (trade + Hawaii Contractor’s Law Exam).

Exam Details

  • Exams: General Building (B) Exam + Hawaii Contractor’s Law Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 (trade) + 100 (law); 4 hours per part
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: IBC; Hawaii statutes/rules; business guides
  • Topics: Vertical/horizontal construction; codes; state law/business
  • Retake Policy: Reapply and pay fee

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00 per part
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability; Board may require bond; workers’ compensation if employees.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official B-General information

Exam Prep:

PDF practice exams for the Hawaii B trade and law parts—1,500–2,500 questions, full answer keys, and precise reference locators. No time or use limits; study at your pace.

Hawaii B General Building Contractor License Practice Test

See more study resources for A & B classifications: Browse Hawaii contractor license practice tests and study material.

Roofing Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates roofing contractors with 1 license type:

Note: Roofing contractor licensing is state-issued. Expect local permits/inspections but no separate city/county roofing licenses.

C-42 Roofing Contractor

The C-42 classification covers roofing system installation and related work under Hawaii codes and safety requirements.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time supervisory experience in roofing within the last 10 years.
  • Documentation: Chronological project documentation and certified references.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-42 Roofing Contractor Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Roofing system codes/references; Hawaii statutes
  • Topics: Roof system installation; safety; Hawaii code; jobsite management
  • Retake Policy: Reapply and pay exam fee

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE required.

Official C-42 information

Looking for more Hawaii roofing exam prep? Browse Hawaii contractor license practice tests and study material.

Specialty Trade Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii regulates specialty trades with 2 license types:

Note: Specialty contractor licensing is administered by the state Board. Local jurisdictions will require permits but do not license specialty contractors separately.

C-20 Fire Protection Contractor

The C-20 classification covers fire protection systems such as sprinkler installation, testing, and maintenance in accordance with NFPA codes and Hawaii law.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time experience in fire protection systems within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Project history with notarized references.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-20 Fire Protection Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: NFPA codes; state statutes
  • Topics: Fire sprinkler systems; code; installation; testing
  • Retake Policy: Reapply

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official C-20 information

C-61 Solar Energy Contractor

The C-61 classification covers solar energy systems, including installation and code compliance per Hawaii statutes and applicable solar codes.

Requirements

  • Experience: Four years full-time experience in solar energy within the past 10 years.
  • Documentation: Chronological project documentation and references.
  • Education: None specified.
  • Age: 18+
  • Exam: Required; provider PSI.

Exam Details

  • Exam Name: C-61 Solar Energy Exam
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Questions/Time: 80 questions, 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75%
  • References: Solar energy codes; Hawaii statutes
  • Topics: Solar system installation; safety; code compliance
  • Retake Policy: Reapply and pay fee

Fees

  • Application: $50.00
  • Examination: $75.00
  • Initial License: $663.00 (even-year) / $494.00 (odd-year)
  • Renewal: $353.00 (biennial)
  • Late Penalty: $25.00

Insurance & Renewal

  • Insurance: Required; minimum $100,000 liability.
  • Renewal: Biennial; no CE specified.

Official C-61 information

Find additional specialty exam resources: Browse Hawaii contractor license practice tests and study material.

Application Process

  1. Register your business entity and obtain a Hawaii Tax Clearance.
  2. Complete the Application form and Chronological History of Projects.
  3. Submit credit report, financial statement, and references.
  4. Pay application fee ($50.00).
  5. Wait for application review and approval (can take 4-8 weeks).
  6. Once approved, register for the PSI exam(s).
  7. Pass the designated trade and law exams ($75 per part).
  8. Submit proof of insurance and bonding if required.
  9. Pay initial license fee.
  10. Receive Hawaii contractor license; maintain records and renew biennially.

Timeline: 4-8 weeks from application submission to exam eligibility; additional time for exam scheduling, results, and issuing license (total process may take 2-3 months for most applicants)

Apply online and access forms here: DCCA – Contractors License Board Application Forms. After licensure, the Board’s public lookup can be used to verify license status: Hawaii Professional Licensing Lookup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in Hawaii?

Plan for 4–8 weeks from application submission to exam eligibility, plus additional time for exam scheduling, scoring, and license issuance. Most applicants complete the process in 2–3 months.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Hawaii?

No. Hawaii does not have reciprocity with other states for contractor or trade licenses. All applicants must meet Hawaii’s requirements and pass Hawaii-specific exams.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Per the Board/PSI policies, candidates generally must reapply and pay the exam fee to retake. Some classifications specify retake after reapplying; see the exam details above and the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. Most contractor classifications require at least $100,000 in liability coverage. Workers’ compensation is required if you have employees. Some classifications may also require a bond at the Board’s discretion.

How do I renew my license?

Licenses renew on a biennial cycle. For many contractor classifications, the renewal deadline is June 30 of even-numbered years. The Board does not currently specify continuing education for the classifications listed here.

Does my city or county have separate contractor licensing?

No. Contractor licensing for the trades covered in this guide is handled by the state Board. Your local jurisdiction will still require building permits and inspections, but it does not issue a separate contractor license.

Where can I find practice tests for Hawaii exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Hawaii contractor exams. Each set typically includes 1,500–2,500 questions, 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.

Browse all Hawaii tests →

Official Sources & References

Official Sources:

  1. Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA), Main Board Page
    https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  2. Hawaii DCCA Contractors License Board Application Forms
    https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor/application_publications/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  3. Hawaii DCCA PSI Examination Candidate Information Bulletin
    https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/files/2021/08/CON-Examination-Bulletin.pdf
    Exam Provider | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  4. Consumers, Contractors, and Contracts (Official Consumer Protection Booklet)
    https://www.localhawaiirealestate.com/Docs%20and%20Forms/public/consumers_contractors_contracts.pdf
    State Statute | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  5. Hawaii Professional Licensing Lookup (DCCA)
    https://portal.ehawaii.gov/business/professional-licensing/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  6. Hawaii Contractor License Requirements and Application Help
    https://contractorlicensinginc.com/national-contractor-licensing/hawaii-contractor-license/
    Secondary | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  7. Simply Business – Hawaii Contractor Licenses Overview
    https://www.simplybusiness.com/resource/getting-a-contractors-license-in-hawaii/
    Secondary | Accessed: 2025-11-07
  8. Procore – Hawaii Contractor Licensing Guide
    https://www.procore.com/library/hawaii-contractors-license
    Secondary | Accessed: 2025-11-07

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2025. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.

Official Source: For current information, contact Hawaii Contractors License Board, Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA):

No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Local Requirements: Hawaii contractor licensing is administered at the state level; however, local building departments set permit and inspection requirements. Always confirm local permitting before starting work.

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