Hawaii License Overview
Compact / eNLCNo — Non-Compact
Endorsement Fee$145
Typical Timing8-12 weeks
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseNo / See BON
Board Phone(808) 586-3000
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 8-12 weeks.
TGL Recruiter tip: Processing estimates change with fingerprint delays, missing documents, and application volume. Confirm the current timeline with the Board before promising a start date — and always start early.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
ℹ Hawaii is a non-compact state. A separate Hawaii RN license is required to practice there.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Submit your endorsement application through the Hawaii Professional and Vocational Licensing division and pay the $145 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys from your original state(s) of licensure.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check — Hawaii uses the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center (HCJDC). Out-of-state applicants submit FBI fingerprint cards.
- Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks — Hawaii is one of the slower states due to staffing and volume.
- Monitor your application status through the PVL online portal.
Temporary License
- Hawaii does not routinely issue temporary licenses to out-of-state nurses. Contact the Board directly to confirm before planning your assignment around a Hawaii temporary authorization.
TGL Recruiter tip: Start the licensing process as early as possible — especially for non-compact states, which can take 8–12 weeks. Your TGL recruiter will track your application status and help you time your assignment start date.
Fees
Endorsement application fee is $145. No standard temporary license fee (Hawaii does not routinely issue temporary licenses). Biennial renewal is $95. Background check fees are separate.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Hawaii Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Hawaii RN licenses renew biennially. Renewal requires 30 hours of continuing education per renewal period. Renewal fee is $95.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Hawaii is a non-compact state — a separate Hawaii license is required regardless of home state.
- Plan for 10–12 weeks minimum. Hawaii's Board is small and processing is slow — do not schedule an assignment start before your license is confirmed active.
- Hawaii licenses are verified through the PVL portal; facilities will check online before your first shift.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Hawaii Board of Nursing.
