Registered Nurse / Hawaii
2026 data Hawaii board official source

Hawaii Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Provides patient care, administers medications, and coordinates with physicians. Requires NCLEX-RN exam.

What the Hawaii data shows for Registered Nurses

Hawaii's path to registered nurse licensure runs through 2,789 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NCLEX-RN, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Hawaii folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Upfront cost is $80, with renewal running $80 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 5 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Hawaii

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,789 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$213
Renewal Fee
$149
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$80
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$80
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
5 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
30 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Registered Nurse All Hawaii licenses
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 Registered Nurse in Hawaii? ▼
Hawaii's requirements cover 2789 hours of education or training, the NCLEX-RN exam, and an initial fee of $213. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Hawaii? ▼
Hawaii licenses registered nurses who complete its requirements (2789 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Hawaii licensing board.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Hawaii from another state? ▼
Registered Nurse licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Hawaii licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Hawaii require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Hawaii does require a background check before issuing a registered nurse license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Hawaii? ▼
Hawaii ties continued registered nurse licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $149 renewal fee.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Hawaii? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Hawaii is $80. The renewal fee is $80 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 5 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Hawaii? ▼
In Hawaii, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 5 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.