Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Hawaii, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Hawaii
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$52,000 median (48% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Hawaii
With a median salary of 52,000, Cosmetologists in Hawaii earn 48% above the national median of $35,250. Hawaii ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-0.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,316Median annual salary
$52,000Hourly estimate
$25.0048% above national median
Difference: +$16,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $52,000 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $39,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $35,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $58,920 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alaska | $44,700 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alaska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
P. O. Box 3469, [335 Merchant St., Rm. 301, Honolulu, HI 96813], Honolulu, HI, 96801
Phone: 8085863000
Related Careers in Hawaii
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $41,560 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $80,590 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $29,120 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Hawaii?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Cosmetologists in Hawaii?
Hawaii lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Hawaii is 52,000. Salaries range from $29,120 (10th percentile) to $78,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Hawaii earn 48% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 52,000.
How many Cosmetologists work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 1,000 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Hawaii from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Hawaii?
The licensing agency is Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs / Professional and Vocational Licensing Division / Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/barber/.