2026 data Hawaii board official source

Hawaii Licensed Professional Counselor License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides mental health counseling and therapy services.

What the Hawaii data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

To practice as a licensed professional counselor in Hawaii, the state licensing board requires 3,289 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE examination, and 2 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Hawaii's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

Upfront cost is $210, with renewal running $170 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Hawaii

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
3,289 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$210
Renewal Fee
$170
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

License Reciprocity

Counseling Compact: 40+ states

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 Licensed Professional Counselor in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires 3289 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE), and an initial fee of $210. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Hawaii?
To become a licensed licensed professional counselor in Hawaii, you must meet the state's requirements including 3289 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Hawaii licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Hawaii from another state?
Hawaii has reciprocity provisions: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Hawaii licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Hawaii require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing?
Yes, Hawaii requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed professional counselor licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor in Hawaii?
Licensed licensed professional counselors in Hawaii must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $170.

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

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