Cosmetologist in Hawaii
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for HI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Hawaii.
Jobs (HI)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cosmetologist in Hawaii
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Hawaii, applicants must complete 1800 hours of training at a board-approved beauty school or 3600 apprenticeship hours, and hold a high school diploma or GED. They must then pass both the Prometric Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams with a score of at least 75% on each portion. The application fee is $20, and licenses are renewed every two years, with no continuing education required. Hawaii does offer reciprocity for out-of-state licensees who meet equivalent requirements and pass the Hawaii written exam.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Hawaii. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Hawaii requirements
| Licensing body | Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 1800 hours of training at a board-approved beauty school or 3600 apprenticeship hours, and a high school diploma or GED. |
| Exam | Prometric Cosmetology Written and Practical Exams (passing score of 75% on each portion) ($90) |
| Application fee | $20 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age of 16 years old. Hawaii uses the term 'Beauty Operator' for cosmetologist. A temporary permit is available to work under supervision while waiting to take the licensing exam, valid for one year. A criminal background check is required. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleHawaii license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk