Aloha State Licensing
How to Get Your Hawaii Real Estate License
60 hours of pre-licensing, a dual-portion PSI exam, and unique land laws rooted in Hawaii's history — here's what you need to know before sitting for the Hawaii real estate exam.
Hawaii Real Estate Commission
The Hawaii Real Estate Commission (HREC) under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) regulates all real estate licensees. Hawaii uses a salesperson → broker license structure.
Hawaii requires 60 hours of pre-licensing education before you can sit for the exam. After passing, you must work under a licensed broker to activate your license.
The Hawaii real estate exam is administered by PSI and consists of a national portion (80 questions, 150 minutes) and a state portion (50 questions, 90 minutes). The passing score is 75% on each portion.
Hawaii Fast Facts
Pre-Licensing Hours
60 hours of approved education required before exam eligibility.
Exam Format
80 national + 50 state questions. Must pass each portion at 75%.
License Fee
Initial application fee is $90. Biennial renewal is $134 for salespersons.
Exam Cost
PSI exam fee is $60 per attempt. Retakes require the full fee.
Hawaii's Unique Land Laws
Hawaii has a leasehold land system unlike almost any other state. A large portion of residential properties — particularly on Oahu — sit on leased land owned by estates like Kamehameha Schools (Bishop Estate). Buyers purchase the home but lease the ground beneath it, often on 55-year terms.
The Land Court system and Regular System are Hawaii's two methods of recording title. Land Court (Torrens system) provides a government-guaranteed certificate of title. The Condominium Property Regime (CPR) governs condominiums under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 514B.
The Hawaii Disclosure Statement (HDS) is required for all residential sales and covers property condition, leasehold terms, association fees, and any known material defects.
Hawaii Real Estate Exam FAQ
Can I take Hawaii's pre-licensing online?
Yes. HREC approves online pre-licensing providers. Both self-paced and instructor-led online options are available.
What is a leasehold property and why does it matter on the exam?
Leasehold means you own improvements (the home) but lease the land. Hawaii exam questions test your understanding of fee simple vs. leasehold ownership and lease renegotiation risks.
How long do I have to find a sponsoring broker?
You must have an active sponsoring broker at the time of license activation. There is no fixed window, but your license remains inactive until a broker sponsors you.
Is Hawaii a community property state?
No. Hawaii is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally upon divorce.