Beauty Operator License in Hawaii
Quick Answer
To become a licensed beauty operator in Hawaii (equivalent to cosmetologist), you must complete approximately 1,800 hours of training and pass the licensing exam. Hawaii uses the title 'Beauty Operator.' Estimated costs are approximately $200. Hawaii's 1,800-hour requirement is among the higher nationally.
- Education Required
- 1800 hours
- Exam
- Hawaii Beauty Operator Exam (NIC)
- Total Cost
- $200 (est.)
- Timeline
- 10-16 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Beauty Operator license in Hawaii
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $30
- Exam Fee
- $50
- Renewal Fee
- $30
- Total Estimated Cost
- $200
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Beauty Operator license in Hawaii. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Hawaii licensing board.
Beauty Operator Salary in Hawaii
Entry Level
$29,120
Median
$52,000
Experienced
$78,840
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Beauty Operator in Hawaii.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Hawaii Beauty Operator Exam (NIC)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$30.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 10-16 months.
Beauty Operator Licensing in Hawaii: What to Know
Hawaii uses the title 'Beauty Operator' rather than 'Cosmetologist,' one of the few states using this terminology. Hawaii requires approximately 1,800 hours of training, among the higher requirements nationally. The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs oversees licensing. Hawaii's tourism and resort industry creates year-round demand for beauty services, particularly in Honolulu and Maui. The high cost of living is partially offset by strong earning potential in resort settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Beauty Operator license cost in Hawaii?
- The estimated total cost is $200, including application fees, exam fees ($50), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Beauty Operator license in Hawaii?
- The process typically takes 10-16 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Beauty Operator license in Hawaii?
- You need to pass the Hawaii Beauty Operator Exam (NIC). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Beauty Operator requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.