General Contractor License Cost in Hawaii 2026: $790 Fees, $73K Salary
Getting a General Contractor license in Hawaii costs $790 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.5 months.
General Contractor License in Hawaii — Key Numbers
$790
Upfront Cost
$73K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$250
Renewal (every 2 yrs)
0.5 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.
General Contractor License Cost Breakdown — Hawaii
Exam fee
$340
Application fee
$250
Initial license fee
$200
Total upfront
$790
Renewal fee (every 2 yrs)
$250
CE hours required per cycle
20 hours
Salary without license (Hawaii)
$53,760/yr
Salary with license (Hawaii)
$72,800/yr
5-year net ROI
$94K
Licensing body: Hawaii Contractors Licensing Board. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.
General Contractor License in Hawaii — What to Know
Hawaii requires state-level contractor licensing, which typically includes a trade exam, financial responsibility documentation, and proof of insurance. The $73K median for licensed contractors in Hawaii reflects strong construction demand in the state's metros. Licensed GCs in Hawaii can pull permits, take on unlimited-value projects, and hire subcontractors directly. The exam covers building codes, contract law, and business practices. Insurance and bonding requirements add to the ongoing cost beyond the license fee itself.