How to become an esthetician in Hawaii
Hawaii estheticians are licensed by the Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed esthetician in Hawaii, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an esthetician in Hawaii?
- At least 16 years old
- High school graduate or equivalent education
- U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or alien authorized to work in the U.S.
Hawaii esthetician license requirements
| Licensed by | Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing Division |
|---|---|
| License name | Beauty Operator – Esthetician |
| Education or training | 600 beauty school hours or 1,200 apprenticeship hours, or 1 year of licensed experience in another state. |
| Exam | Theory exam administered by PSI Services (Hawaii's vendor since January 1, 2026, replacing Prometric). Esthetics Theory Examination. |
| License term | Licenses expire December 31 of each odd-numbered year (2-year cycle). |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required to renew. |
| Reciprocity | No reciprocity, but an out-of-state license with at least 1 year of licensed experience can satisfy the training requirement. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (non-refundable) | $20.00 |
|---|---|
| License fees after passing, if licensed in an even-numbered year | $165 (application $20 + license $22 + CRF $100 + 1/2 renewal $23) |
| License fees after passing, if licensed in an odd-numbered year | $92 (application $20 + license $22 + CRF $50) |
| Optional temporary permit | $40.00 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become an esthetician in Hawaii
- Complete 600 beauty school hours or 1,200 apprenticeship hours
- Mail the Beauty Operator license application with transcript or progress report and the $20 fee (temporary permit optional)
- Receive exam approval from the Board
- Register with PSI and pass the Esthetics Theory exam
- Pay the license fees on your Fees Due notice
- Renew by December 31 of each odd-numbered year
Apply on the official Hawaii site
How do you check an esthetician's license in Hawaii?
- Search the name or license number on the official Hawaii esthetician license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.