How to become a real estate agent in Hawaii: Step-by-step guide
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step path to becoming a real estate salesperson in the Aloha State.
- Step 1: Meet Hawaii’s basic requirements and complete pre-licensing education
- Step 2: Upload your certificate and register for the exam
- Step 3: Pass the Hawaii real estate exam
- Step 4: Secure a sponsoring brokerage
- Step 5: Submit your application for licensure
- Start your journey as a real estate agent today
- FAQs
How to get your real estate license in Hawaii
Ready to start your journey toward a prosperous and fulfilling real estate career? Here are the five key steps and licensing requirements to become a real estate salesperson in Hawaii.
Step 1
Meet Hawaii’s basic requirements and complete pre-licensing education
Before you can dive into your new career, you must meet the state’s licensing requirements established by the Hawaii Real Estate Commission and complete your mandatory education.
- Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years of age by your examination date.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen, a United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
- Education requirement: You must have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent by the examination date.
- SSN & Reputation: You must provide a Social Security Number and possess a reputation for competency, honesty, truthfulness, financial integrity, and fair dealing.
- Total hours: 60
Colibri Real Estate empowers aspiring agents and brokers to start or advance their careers by offering flexible, online education. Join over 1.5 million students who have trusted our platform (backed by a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee) to help them thrive.
Step 2
Upload your certificate and register for the exam
Before you can schedule your test, you must be approved by the testing agency, PSI Services, LLC. You are required to upload your unexpired Hawaii School Completion Certificate (or an original Equivalency Certificate) to PSI prior to testing.
PSI will review your documentation and either approve or deny your testing request within three business days.
Once approved, you will receive a welcome email with eligibility instructions to help you securely schedule your exam.
Step 3
Pass the Hawaii real estate exam
After receiving your approval email, you can schedule your exam directly through PSI. Walk-in testing is not available, so be sure to book your appointment in advance.
To prepare for exam day, ensure you feel confident in both national real estate concepts and Hawaii-specific laws. Passing the salesperson’s examination is a major milestone, proving you have the knowledge necessary to succeed and guide your future clients.
Step 4
Secure a sponsoring brokerage
To practice as an active real estate professional, your real estate business must be under the direct management of a licensed Hawaii principal broker. This is a significant decision that will shape your professional growth.
Take the time to interview several brokerages to find the perfect fit. When you meet with them, inquire about:
- Mentorship programs: Do they provide new agents with ongoing education and hands-on support to help you succeed?
- Commission splits: Ensure you have a clear understanding of how commissions are divided.
- Company culture: A visit to the office can help you determine if the professional environment aligns with your personal values and long-term goals.
Step 5
Submit your application for licensure
Once you have passed the exam, you have two years from the date of your examination to submit the application provided after passing your exam to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Your application must include your original School Completion Certificate (or Equivalency Certificate), your original test score report, and all required licensing fees.
Once your application is approved and your fees are processed, your license will be issued. You are now ready to step into your new career!
Start your journey as a real estate agent today
Getting your real estate license in Hawaii is an achievable goal, especially with the right guidance. Colibri Real Estate offers flexible, state-approved online courses and expert instructors that make it simple to get started and stay on track.
With built-in support and proven training trusted by over 1.5 million professionals, you’ll have everything you need to move quickly from learning to licensed. Start your journey today and take the first step toward your new career.
FAQs
Starting a real estate business is incredibly affordable compared to some career switches. Your estimated costs will include:
Real estate licensing costs for Hawaii
– Pre-licensing courses $290 – $790
– Application fee varies – dependent on when you’re licensed within the biennial (2-year) licensing cycle
– Examination fee $61 (per attempt)
– Fingerprinting/background check $35 – $55
– Total approximate cost $386 – $906
Note: These costs are subject to change.
Your personal timeline depends heavily on your schedule and dedication. If you treat your online pre-licensing courses like a full-time job, you can complete the required coursework quickly. After finishing your education, PSI typically takes about three business days to approve your uploaded certificate. From there, you can immediately schedule your exam and submit your final application to the state.