Application Fee
See agencyVerified by HI Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Hawaii
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher 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 K-12 Teacher in Hawaii
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
State of Hawaii • Hawaii Teacher Standards Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,420 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#30 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 60,420, K-12 Teachers in Hawaii earn 3% below the national median of $62,340. Hawaii ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$60,420Hourly estimate
$29.053% below national median
Difference: -$1,920
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#30 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 99,110 |
| #2 | California | 98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | New York | 82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $60,420 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $98,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $75,800 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $99,110 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alaska | $76,290 | 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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alaska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
State of Hawaii • Hawaii Teacher Standards Board
650 Iwilei Road, Suite 268, Honolulu, HI, 96817
Phone: 8085862600
Related Careers in Hawaii
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $62,880 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $66,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $100,370 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $92,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers in Hawaii?
Hawaii lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Hawaii?
The board typically expects Degree required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Hawaii.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Hawaii?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Hawaii is 60,420. Salaries range from $46,450 (10th percentile) to $77,900 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Hawaii compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Hawaii earn 3% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 60,420.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Hawaii?
Hawaii employs approximately 5,270 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Hawaii from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for K-12 Teachers in Hawaii?
The licensing agency is State of Hawaii / Hawaii Teacher Standards Board. Review agency details at http://www.htsb.org/.