Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Hawaii, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Hawaii
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$136,320 median (46% 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 136,320, Registered Nurses in Hawaii earn 46% above the national median of $93,600. 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
$136,320Hourly estimate
$65.5446% above national median
Difference: +$42,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $136,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $140,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $123,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $112,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alaska | $110,690 | 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 | 50 | 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 | 50 | 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: Continuing education required 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 Nursing
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $102,260 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $44,870 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in Hawaii?
Hawaii lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Hawaii is 136,320. Salaries range from $82,380 (10th percentile) to $146,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Hawaii earn 46% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 136,320.
How many Registered Nurses work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 13,100 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Hawaii from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Hawaii?
The licensing agency is Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs / Professional and Vocational Licensing Division / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/nursing/.