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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Hawaii
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Hawaii eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs~Professional and Vocational Licensing Division~Board of Barbering and Cosmetology and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| California | $39,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $35,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Washington | $58,920 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Alaska | $44,700 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alaska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $41,560 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $80,590 | Specific course required | 1-18 years |
| Nail Technician | $29,120 | Specific course required | 1 month |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Hawaii?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Hawaii?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.