Cosmetology Schools in Hawaii
Hawaii may be the perfect place to begin a cosmetology career! Not only would you get to pursue your passion for all things beauty, but you could make a good living while doing so. The median cosmetology pay in the state is higher than the national median.
Want to learn more about how to become a cosmetologist in Hawaii?
Browse our directory of cosmetology schools in Hawaii, or skip ahead to learn about the state's cosmetology licensing requirements and job outlook.
Browse All Cosmetology Schools in Hawaii
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You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Hawaii
- Cosmetology School Hours: 1800
- Cosmetology Apprenticeship Hours: 3600
- Renewal Years: 1
- Continuing Education Requirements: None
- Median Cosmetologist Salary: $52,000
What to Expect from a Cosmetology Program in Hawaii
Time to Complete a Cosmetology Program in Hawaii
In Hawaii, cosmetology programs run for 1800 hours and cover a wide variety of beauty-related subjects. You can expect to spend time in more traditional classroom settings, doing observations, and practicing your skills in a realistic salon setting.
Your classes should cover everything you'll encounter on the state cosmetology exam. Some of the subjects are:
Your hair-focused coursework should also include lessons and training on natural hair needs and services.
The school determines the exact order and depth of its program. That's why it's important to do your research, tour schools, and ask questions—you need to make sure you choose the right beauty school for you!
Can I Become a Cosmetologist in Hawaii Through an Apprenticeship?
Yes, Hawaii allows cosmetology licensure via apprenticeship. Before beginning your cosmetology apprenticeship, you need to get an apprentice permit. To do this, you need to complete an application form, including specific documentation, and pay a $57 fee.
You must be the only apprentice working under your trainer, and you must complete your experience in no more than 42 months and work at least 20 hours per week. State law requires that cosmetology apprentices be paid at least the minimum wage, which is $16 per hour as of 2026 and will go up to $18 per hour in 2028.
Unlike some other states, Hawaii allows you to combine apprenticeship and school hours. Two apprenticeship hours equal one school hour. However, this is all at the Board's discretion.
How to Get Your Cosmetology License in Hawaii
In addition to completing your 1800 school hours, 3600 apprenticeship hours, or a combination of the two, you need to make sure you meet other cosmetology licensure requirements. Hawaii requires license applicants to:
The state might also tell you to take medical clearance tests if they deem them necessary.
Once you've been approved to take the cosmetology test, you may be granted a temporary permit. This would allow you to practice cosmetology for up to one year after the date of issuance. You need to pass your test within that time to continue practicing beyond that year.
Hawaii Cosmetology Exams
You must pass a theory (written) cosmetology test before getting your license. Hawaii switched testing vendors on January 1, 2026, so examinees must now apply to take their test through PSI Services. You can sit for your cosmetology exam at any PSI testing location in the US, some of which are on the islands of Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai. The state requires in-person testing.
Before you can schedule your test, you need the Board to authorize your examination. Once they've submitted their approval, you may arrange your test and pay the $95 exam fee by phone (855-340-3713) or on the PSI website. Testing centers can't schedule you. PSI recommends signing up for your preferred exam slot at least four weeks in advance.
Plan ahead! You must arrive at the test center early, with only an acceptable ID. Electronics, personal belongings, and food and drinks aren't allowed in, and you can't bring anyone with you—even if they just plan to sit in a waiting area.
If you have a disability, you may need to request accommodations well in advance. However, certain "comfort aids," such as medications, medical and mobility devices, service animals, and even a lumbar support pillow, don't require prior approval. (PSI has created a complete list of pre-approved comfort aids.)
The PSI National Cosmetology Theory Test runs for two hours and includes 110 questions (10 of which are unscored). Topics are weighted as follows:
You need to score at least 75% on your cosmetology exam. Your score will be emailed to you after you finish your test. If you don't pass, you may reapply and pay the fee to retake it.
If you fail the licensure exam, you need to reapply and pay the fee again.
Note: If you passed the NIC test or PSI exam in another jurisdiction, you might be able to get an exam waiver.
Hawaii Cosmetology Licensure Reciprocity
Hawaii doesn't have direct cosmetology licensure reciprocity with any other jurisdiction. However, if the Board determines your cosmetology training was substantially similar to Hawaii's, you may be able to skip training and sit for your exam. Military spouses with active cosmetology licensure may have this process expedited.
Cosmetology Specialties in Hawaii
Cosmetology falls under Hawaii's umbrella career field called "beauty operator." There are three other kinds of beauty operators in Hawaii:
As of 2026, Hawaii still requires hair braiders to hold a cosmetology or hairdressing license, and makeup artists need a cosmetology or esthetician license.
Cosmetology Licensure Renewal in Hawaii
License renewal period
Continuing education required
You need to renew your cosmetology license by December 31st in every odd-numbered year. No continuing education is required, but you must pay a $146 licensure fee. Late renewals incur penalties, and if you're more than three years overdue, your license is considered forfeited. In that situation, you may have to take extra steps to get your license, as you'd be considered a new applicant.
Cosmetologist Salary and Projected Job Growth in Hawaii
Median Cosmetology Pay in Hawaii