Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Hawaii, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Hawaii
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Hawaii State Judiciary • The Supreme Court of Hawaii • Board of Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$116,010 median (23% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Hawaii eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Hawaii State Judiciary~The Supreme Court of Hawaii~Board of Examiners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Hawaii
With a median salary of $116,010, Lawyers in Hawaii earn 23% below the national median of $151,160. Hawaii ranks #32 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
$116,010Hourly estimate
$55.7723% below national median
Difference: -$35,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#32 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $179,050 |
| #3 | New York | $177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | $172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | $167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $116,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| California | $197,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $141,520 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Washington | $151,950 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Alaska | $132,710 | 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 Judiciary • The Supreme Court of Hawaii • Board of Examiners
417 South King Street, Room 103, Honolulu, HI, 96813
Phone: 8085394977
Related Careers in Hawaii
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $100,370 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $60,180 | Degree required | 2 years |
| Certified Public Accountant | $67,820 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $94,970 | Degree required | 2-12 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 Lawyers in Hawaii?
Hawaii lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Hawaii is $116,010. Salaries range from $76,180 (10th percentile) to $173,040 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Hawaii earn 23% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of $116,010.
How many Lawyers work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 2,430 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer 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 Lawyers in Hawaii?
The licensing agency is Hawaii State Judiciary / The Supreme Court of Hawaii / Board of Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.courts.state.hi.us/legal_references/attorneys/attorneys.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Hawaii?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.