How to Get a Hawaii Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you dreaming of a career in Hawaii’s vibrant real estate market? Becoming a real estate agent in the Aloha State can open the door to meaningful interactions, flexible schedules, and an opportunity to help people find their perfect island home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step required to get your Hawaii real estate license, address the most common questions aspiring agents have, and provide final tips to help you succeed in this exciting field.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Hawaii

Before you begin your journey, make sure you understand Hawaii’s specific licensing requirements. Below is an ordered list of the key steps you need to take. Keep reading for a detailed explanation of each step!

1. Confirm Eligibility Requirements
2. Complete 60 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education and Final Course Exam
3. Apply for the Hawaii Real Estate Salesperson Exam
4. Pass the Hawaii Real Estate Salesperson Exam
5. Get Fingerprinted and Complete a Background Check
6. Find a Sponsoring Broker
7. Submit Your License Application

Let’s break down each of these steps in detail.

1. Confirm Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a real estate license in Hawaii, you must be:

• At least 18 years old.
• Have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• A U.S. citizen or lawful resident.

Meeting these requirements is your first step toward a career in Hawaii real estate.

2. Complete 60 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

Hawaii requires you to complete 60 hours of approved pre-licensing real estate education. These courses typically cover:

• Hawaii real estate laws and regulations
• Property management
• Ethics and fair housing
• Contract law and agency relationships

You can choose from in-person classes or online programs, depending on your learning style. 

At the end of this coursework, you will usually need to pass a final course exam to earn your course completion certificate. This certificate is mandatory for registering for the official state licensing exam.

Passing the final exam confirms you have absorbed the core knowledge required to move forward in the licensing process.

3. Apply for the Hawaii Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Once you have your pre-licensing education certificate in hand, the next step is to apply for the Hawaii real estate salesperson exam. Here’s how to do it:

• Hawaii typically uses PSI as its exam provider.
• You’ll need to fill out the exam application form, which can often be completed online.
• Submit the required materials, which may include your course completion certificate, a valid ID, and exam application fees.
• Once your application is accepted, you can schedule your exam date, time, and testing center location.

Make sure to follow all instructions carefully and pay attention to any deadlines. Missing information or late submissions can delay your exam date.

4. Pass the Hawaii Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Once your application is approved, the next step is to take—and pass—the Hawaii Real Estate Salesperson Exam. 

The exam consists of two sections: a national portion covering fundamental real estate principles and practices and a state-specific portion focused on Hawaii’s real estate laws.

You will answer 80 questions in the national section and 50 questions in the state-specific section, with a total of four hours to complete both. A passing score requires at least 70% on each section.

The exam fee is currently $61. On test day, arrive on time with two valid, unexpired forms of identification that match your registered name and include a valid signature to ensure a smooth check-in process.

To improve your chances of passing on the first attempt, consider enrolling in an exam prep program.

5. Get Fingerprinted and Complete a Background Check

Once you’ve passed your exam, you must undergo fingerprinting and a background check. Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your fingerprinting appointment.
• A background check ensures there are no disqualifying criminal history issues.
• You might need to provide additional documentation if there are items in your background that require further explanation.

This step ensures the integrity and trustworthiness of real estate professionals operating in Hawaii.

6. Find a Sponsoring Broker

In Hawaii, new real estate salespersons must work under the supervision of a licensed broker. Here are some tips:

• Research brokers who specialize in the areas of real estate that interest you (residential, commercial, property management, etc.).
• Interview multiple brokerages to find the one that best fits your goals, offers training programs, and provides supportive mentorship.
• Make sure the broker is in good standing with the Hawaii DCCA.

Having a supportive broker is crucial to building a successful real estate career.

7. Submit Your License Application

After completing your exam, the test center staff will provide you with instructions, an application form, your score report, and any other necessary documents. 

You must submit your licensing application within two years of passing the licensing exam. The completed application, along with the required fees and documents, may be sent by mail or delivered in person.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Hawaii

You’ve got questions—we’ve got answers. Below, we address some of the most common queries about starting a real estate career in Hawaii.

How Much Do Hawaii Real Estate Agents Make?

​Hawaii real estate agents' incomes in 2025 vary significantly based on experience, skill level, and market conditions. Most agents operate on a commission-only basis, meaning their earnings correlate directly with the number and value of transactions they close.​

Various sources provide differing average income figures for real estate agents in Hawaii:​

• Indeed indicates an average salary of $104,377 per year, based on 94 salaries reported and updated on March 7, 2025. ​Job Search | Indeed+1Job Search | Indeed+1
• ZipRecruiter estimates the average annual pay at $89,135 as of March 22, 2025. ​ZipRecruiter
• Glassdoor Provides a higher estimate, with an average total pay of $278,990 per year, including an average salary of $173,697 and additional compensation of $105,294. ​Glassdoor

These discrepancies highlight the variability in reported earnings, which can be attributed to factors such as data collection methods, the inclusion of additional compensation (e.g., bonuses, commissions), and the diverse nature of real estate transactions.​

Ultimately, an individual agent's earnings in Hawaii will depend on their ability to navigate commission structures, brokerage fees, and the state's dynamic real estate market conditions.

How Much Does a Hawaii Real Estate License Cost?

Several expenses go into obtaining your Hawaii real estate license, including:

• Pre-licensing course fees: can range from $300 to $800.
• Exam fee:roughly $60–$70.
• Fingerprinting and background check fees: $50–$75.
• License application and initial licensing fee: varies but often around $300–$400.

In total, you can expect to invest anywhere between $1,000 and $1,300 to get fully licensed, not accounting for additional costs like study materials or exam retakes.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Hawaii Worth It?

Absolutely! If you're passionate about real estate and dedicated to your career, Hawaii's thriving property market offers incredible opportunities. With its steady demand for both residential and investment properties, especially in popular areas like Honolulu, Maui, and Kona, the potential for significant financial rewards is high.

As one of the top vacation and retirement destinations, Hawaii offers unique chances to build valuable connections and grow your professional network. However, keep in mind that the real estate industry here is competitive. Success requires continuous effort, strategic networking, and a commitment to ongoing education. If you're ready to rise to the challenge, a real estate career in Hawaii can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

1. Market Knowledge: Stay informed about current market trends, property values, and neighborhood insights.
2. Networking is Key: Relationships with clients, brokers, and other agents can make or break your success.
3. Time Management: Real estate often requires weekend and evening work to accommodate clients’ schedules.
4. Continuing Education: Hawaii mandates continuing education to maintain your license, so be prepared for ongoing learning.

Having realistic expectations about the workload and required dedication will help you thrive in this field.

Can I Get a Hawaii Real Estate License if I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Hawaii does not maintain direct reciprocity agreements with any other states. This means you cannot transfer your out-of-state license to Hawaii without meeting additional requirements. However, you may be eligible for certain waivers:

National Exam Waiver: If you hold (or have recently held) an active real estate license in another state and have passed the uniform (national) portion of a comparable real estate exam within the last two years, you may be able to waive the national part of Hawaii’s licensing exam.

Partial Requirements Waiver: Depending on your license credentials, you might also receive exemptions from some of Hawaii’s pre-licensing coursework.

How Often Do I Renew My Hawaii Real Estate License?

Hawaii real estate licenses are renewed every two years. You must complete 20 hours of approved continuing education (CE) within each two-year cycle, which typically includes:

• 6 hours of a required core course or courses, and
• 14 hours of elective courses.

Staying on top of your continuing education ensures you remain up-to-date with changing laws, regulations, and market practices.

What Should I Do After Getting My Hawaii Real Estate License?

Once you’re officially licensed, focus on building a strong foundation for your career:

• Join a brokerage that offers good training and mentorship opportunities.
• Establish a marketing plan to help you stand out from the competition.
• Network with other professionals in related fields (mortgage brokers, home inspectors, etc.).
• Consider joining local real estate associations like the Honolulu Board of REALTORS®, which can provide additional resources and education.

Taking these steps will give you the support you need to start growing your clientele and perfecting your craft.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Hawaii

Earning your Hawaii real estate license can be a life-changing decision, granting you the freedom to build your own business and help people achieve their property dreams in one of the most beautiful places on earth. From completing your pre-licensing courses and final exam to finding the right brokerage, each step is an essential part of your journey.

Ready to take the next step? Enroll in our Hawaii Real Estate Licensing Program today to get the comprehensive education and support you need. Let us help you launch a successful career in Hawaii’s dynamic real estate market!