Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker 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: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs • Professional and Vocational Licensing Division • Social Worker Program
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$108,780 median (57% 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 108,780, Social Workers in Hawaii earn 57% above the national median of $69,480. 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
$108,780Hourly estimate
$52.3057% above national median
Difference: +$39,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $108,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $70,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $63,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $96,550 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Alaska | $60,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Alaska | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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 • Social Worker Program
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 Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Hawaii?
Hawaii lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Hawaii is 108,780. Salaries range from $54,660 (10th percentile) to $131,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Hawaii earn 57% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 108,780.
How many Social Workers work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 260 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Hawaii?
The licensing agency is Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs / Professional and Vocational Licensing Division / Social Worker Program. Review agency details at http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/programs/socialworker/.