2026 data Hawaii board official source

Hawaii Elementary School Teacher License Requirements

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

Instructs students in grades K-6. Requires state teaching certificate.

What the Hawaii data shows for Elementary School Teachers

Hawaii's path to elementary school teacher licensure runs through board-approved instruction and a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent), 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 "Bachelors Degree in Education".

Budget $205 to get started, plus $126 at each renewal on a 5-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 150-hour continuing-education requirement per 5-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For elementary school teachers, the reciprocity picture is: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in Hawaii

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$205
Renewal Fee
$126
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 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 Elementary School Teacher in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires, passing an exam (State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)), and an initial fee of $205. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in Hawaii?
To become a licensed elementary school teacher in Hawaii, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Hawaii licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to Hawaii from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for elementary school teachers: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states. 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 Elementary School Teacher licensing?
Yes, Hawaii requires a criminal background check as part of the elementary school teacher licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Elementary School Teacher in Hawaii?
Licensed elementary school teachers in Hawaii must complete 150 hours of continuing education every 5 years. The renewal fee is $126.

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