Hawaii Licensing Requirements and Education
Hawaii sets pre-license education, examination, affiliation, and continuing-education requirements for salespersons. This chapter summarizes the path to and maintenance of a Hawaii license.
Pre-License Education and Examination
An applicant for a Hawaii salesperson license must complete approved pre-license education and pass the licensing examination, which covers national real estate principles and Hawaii-specific law. Applicants must also meet character and eligibility requirements set by the Commission. Passing the exam is a prerequisite, but the license must be activated under a broker to practice.
Affiliation With a Broker
A newly licensed Hawaii salesperson may practice only when the license is activated under and supervised by a licensed Hawaii broker. The employing broker, and the broker-in-charge at a branch, accept responsibility for the salesperson's licensed activity and for trust funds. A salesperson who leaves a firm generally may not conduct licensed activity until the license is placed with a new broker.
Renewal and Continuing Education
Hawaii real estate licenses renew on a set cycle, and licensees must complete Commission-approved continuing education before renewing. Continuing education keeps licensees current with changes in law and practice. Practicing on an expired or forfeited license, or renewing without required education, can subject a licensee to discipline.