2026 data Hawaii board official source

Hawaii Childcare Center Director License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Manages childcare facilities providing care for young children.

What the Hawaii data shows for Childcare Center Directors

Hawaii sets the entry bar for childcare center directors at 95 training hours, with no mandatory exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Hawaii's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Education or Training Requirements".

Budget $163 to get started, plus $124 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For childcare center directors, the reciprocity picture is: Not typically reciprocal.

Licensing Requirements in Hawaii

Education / Training Hours
Education or Training Requirements
95 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$163
Renewal Fee
$124
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Hawaii licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Childcare Center Director in Hawaii?
Hawaii's requirements cover 95 hours of education or training, and an initial fee of $163. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Childcare Center Director in Hawaii?
To become a licensed childcare center director in Hawaii, you must meet the state's requirements including 95 hours of education. Contact the Hawaii licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Childcare Center Director license to Hawaii from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for childcare center directors: Not typically reciprocal. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Hawaii licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Hawaii require a background check for Childcare Center Director licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for childcare center director licensing in Hawaii. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Childcare Center Director in Hawaii?
Hawaii ties continued childcare center director licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $124 renewal fee.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites