Hawaii
Hawaii requires mandatory state licensure for behavior analysts. Applicants must pass the BCBA examination and maintain active status with BACB as BCBA or BCBA-D. Licensure by endorsement available for those licensed in states with equivalent or higher requirements.
Quick Reference
Licensing Board
Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) - Professional & Vocational Licensing Division
License Verification
Online verification available
BACB Certification
BACB certification required
Available License Types
Detailed Requirements
Must meet education requirements through BACB certification pathway. Master's degree required for BCBA certification with approved coursework in behavior analysis.
Supervised experience as required by BACB certification standards.
Must successfully pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination. No additional state exam required.
Biennial renewal required by December 31 of every odd-numbered year (2025, 2027, etc.). No continuing education requirements for renewal. Active renewal: $220. Inactive renewal: $12. Online renewal through mypvl.dcca.hawaii.gov portal. Renewal postcards mailed October 31.
Application Fee: $50. License Fee: $50. Compliance Resolution Fund (CRF): $100. Service Charge (BCF): $25. Total Initial: approximately $225. Active Renewal: $220. Inactive Renewal: $12. Restoration (within 1 year): $320 active / $12 inactive.
BACB certification (BCBA or BCBA-D) is required for state licensure. Applicants must pass the BCBA exam and maintain active BACB certification status. Copy of certification status required with application plus direct verification letter from BACB to DCCA.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Must disclose pending criminal convictions and disciplinary actions. Application abandoned if not completed within 1 year. Forfeited licenses may be restored within 1 year; after 1 year, license terminates and must reapply as new applicant. Licensure by endorsement available for those licensed in states with equivalent or higher requirements. No CE requirements for renewal.
2026-2027 renewal cycle: Online portal accepts renewals November 3, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Postcards mailed October 31, 2025. Hawaii was one of the earlier states to establish licensure (2015).
Additional Information
Hawaii is notable for having NO continuing education requirements for license renewal - one of the few states with this feature. However, BACB certification maintenance still requires CEUs. Biennial renewal by December 31 of odd-numbered years. Licensure by endorsement pathway available for out-of-state practitioners. Restoration period is 1 year after forfeiture before automatic termination.
Manage Your Hawaii License with CertifyndABA
Track your license renewal dates, showcase your credentials, and connect with employers in Hawaii.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference purposes. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) - Professional & Vocational Licensing Division. Last updated: Jan 19, 2026.