How to Get Business License and Permits in Hawaii

One of the critical aspects of setting up a successful business in Hawaii is navigating the process of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. These legal prerequisites ensure that your business operations comply with Hawaii regulations, protect your investment, and minimize potential liabilities. Business licenses and permits are as important as registering your business. If you want to start a business in Hawaii, you must obtain diverse licenses and permits to run the business.

One must know that registering the business and applying for licenses are not the same in Hawaii. There might be some businesses that need to be registered but do not need any licenses or permits. For example, for a graphic designing business, if you create an LLC in Hawaii, you must register your LLC with the secretary of state. Still, you don’t mandatorily need to obtain a business license. Hawaii, popularly knowns as The Aloha State, has some rules and regulations when it comes to starting a business. You need to apply for state and federal licenses. In many states, you might also need local licenses based on the nature of your business.

In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of applying for business licenses and permits in Hawaii. To ensure a smooth application process, we recommend reading this article in its entirety before proceeding with your license applications.

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

What is Business License and Permit in Hawaii
- What Do You Need Before You Apply For Business Licenses and Permits
How to Apply for Business Licenses and Permits in Hawaii
How to Maintain Your Business Licenses in Hawaii
FAQs

What is Business License and Permit in Hawaii

If you’re running a business or are willing to start one, you must know about the licenses and permits. A business license is permission from the government to operate a business of any nature in Hawaii. Typically, as a driver’s license allows you to drive your car, a business license allows you to run your business.

Business licenses are different from business registration. The registration process depends on the structure of your business, for example, Hawaii LLC. But a business license depends on your industry. For example, a graphic designer may not need to get a license but must register their business in Hawaii. So, your LLC might not need a specific license, but if you are selling medical cannabis, you must get the proper license for it.

Most states in the United States need a general business license. Hawaii is one of those states where businesses do not need to obtain this license. Besides, you must get state and federal licenses.

What Do You Need Before You Apply For Business Licenses and Permits

If you’re in the initial step of forming an LLC or any business, you must wait until your business registration in Hawaii is done. Once you are done with all the steps to file your business in Hawaii, you must be ready with the following documents to apply for the business licenses,

Name of your business
Type of your business (Corporation, Partnership, or LLC)
Phone & Address of your business
Your business plan that has revenue and expenses
EIN (Employment Identification Number)

You may need other types of documents before you apply for the business licenses, depending on the business nature. Checking with the local city/county authorities for better information is recommended for clearer information.
–LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to Apply for Business Licenses and Permits in Hawaii

In Hawaii, applying for business licenses and permits is easy. Before applying for it, check with the local authority for license requirements. Here, we have shared three broad categories of licenses. One, State permits and licenses. Two, federal licenses, and finally, a professional license.

Step 1: Get State Licenses and Permits in Hawaii

Obviously, the state where you will conduct your business must have some license requirements. You need to search for the required permits and licenses in the state. Businesses must apply to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs for state licenses. You can search for business licenses in several ways. Read about how to do a business license search to know the process and requirements.

In some states, it is mandatory to get a privileged license. Hawaii is no doubt a business-friendly state. It is one of the states that do not need to get the privilege license. Businesses must go to the official website of the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and search for the licenses and permits they require based on their business.

Step 2: Get Federal Licenses and Permits

Once you’re done applying for State licenses, it is time to apply for Federal business licenses. Following are the licenses one must have if they are conducting business in the following fields,

Agriculture: License issued by The U.S. Department of Agriculture
Aviation: License issued by The Federal Aviation Administration
Alcohol & Tobacco: License issued by The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
Ammunition, Explosive, & Firearms: License issued by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Radio & Television (Broadcast): License issued by The Federal Communications Commission
Mining & Drilling: License issued by The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
Commercial Fisheries: License issued by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service
Wildlife & Fisheries: License issued by The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Nuclear Energy: License issued by The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Transportation by Sea: License issued by The Federal Maritime Commission

If your business belongs to any of the industries mentioned above, you must obtain state as well as federal licenses.

Step 3: Search for Other State Permits and Licenses in Hawaii

Apart from general business licenses and privilege licenses, there might be other licenses and permits that businesses must obtain in Hawaii. As I mentioned, business licenses solely depend on the type of industry you are in. Different states have different licensing policies. You must go to the official website of the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to find out the special licenses your business needs.

You will also find the probate offices in Hawaii through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website. You can drop by the probate office and find out the details about your licenses. Some common permits, such as building permits, health permits, signage permits, zoning permits, and environmental permits, are required if you’re in a related industry.

Step 4: City-based Permits and Licenses in Hawaii

Now, it’s time to consider local authority requirements. Once you’ve completed federal and state formalities, you should check with your local city authorities for any additional permits that may be required. In some cases, certain permits might be issued by local government offices rather than state or federal agencies. As a result, it’s essential to visit your local government office soon after setting up your business to apply for any necessary permits.

Keep in mind that you may come across some licenses that may not seem directly related to your profession. For example, you might not think you need a health permit as a hairstylist. However, it might be a requirement in your city. Such permits help protect you and your fellow Hawaii entrepreneurs from potential legal issues.

Step 5: Home-based Business Licence in Hawaii

The licensing is different if your business is home-based in Hawaii. An initial inspection takes place based on the type of business you are conducting from your home. For example, if you are selling homemade edibles, then it is necessary to check the place’s hygiene. Hawaii state and local authorities will visit your home to check if things are good and hygienic. Based on that, you will get the permit or license to run a home-based business in Hawaii.

Home-based business licenses are issued on the basis of the nature of your business. Issuance, expiration, and renewal of this type of license are different from conventional state and federal licenses. To know more about home-based business license requirements, do pay a visit to the local revenue office.

Step 6: Get a Professional License in Hawaii

This is a special type of license. A professional license is issued only to those with special education, training, and degree. For example, teachers, nurses, doctors, and engineers are eligible to get this license.

In Hawaii, professionals like doctors, engineers, teachers, and nurses obtain this license to start working independently in these fields. Professional Licenses are issued by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and only to those with special education, degree, and/or training.

How to Maintain Your Business Licenses in Hawaii

In Hawaii, businesses typically need to maintain two types of licenses: general state and federal licenses and professional licenses. General state and federal licenses usually expire after one year and are automatically renewed, provided the business is in good standing. Once expired, entrepreneurs must pay the annual fees to renew these licenses.

The rules for professional licenses in Hawaii are slightly different. In order to maintain or renew a professional license, individuals often need to complete continuing education requirements. For example, a doctor with a professional license must continue studying and training to stay up-to-date with new medical technology and treatments. The professional can renew their license after finishing the required training or education.

FAQs

What is a business license in Hawaii?

A business license in Hawaii is a document that authorizes an individual or business to conduct business in the state.

Is a business license required to do business in Hawaii?

Yes, a business license is required to do business in Hawaii.

How do I get a business license in Hawaii?

To obtain a business license in Hawaii, you must first register your business with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

What are the requirements to get a business license in Hawaii?

Requirements to obtain a business license in Hawaii include registering your business name, filing a business license application, obtaining certain permits and paying the applicable license fees.

Are there any additional permits or licenses required for certain types of businesses in Hawaii?

Yes, certain types of businesses in Hawaii may require additional permits or licenses to operate.

What type of additional permits or licenses may be needed for different types of businesses in Hawaii?

Types of additional permits or licenses that may be required for different types of businesses in Hawaii include professional or occupational licenses, building permits, health permits, zoning permits and special permits.

What is the cost for a business license in Hawaii?

The cost of a business license in Hawaii depends on the type of business and the county in which the business is located.

What is the process for obtaining a business license in Hawaii?

The process for obtaining a business license in Hawaii involves registering your business name with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, filing a business license application, obtaining the necessary permits and paying the applicable license fees.

Are there any restrictions on businesses in Hawaii?

Yes, there are certain restrictions that may apply to businesses in Hawaii, such as zoning regulations, environmental regulations and health and safety regulations.

What is the process for renewing a business license in Hawaii?

The process for renewing a business license in Hawaii involves filing a renewal application with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, obtaining the necessary permits and paying the applicable license fees.

What are the penalties for failing to obtain a business license in Hawaii?

The penalties for failing to obtain a business license in Hawaii can include fines, prosecution and even the closure of the business.

What type of businesses are exempt from obtaining a business license in Hawaii?

Businesses that are exempt from obtaining a business license in Hawaii include certain charitable organizations and certain types of home-based businesses.

Can I obtain a business license in Hawaii online?

Yes, it is possible to obtain a business license in Hawaii online through the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website.

What type of business license do I need to operate in Hawaii?

Depending on the type of business you are operating in Hawaii, the specific business license you need may vary. Generally, most businesses need a Basic Business License, although certain businesses may require additional permits or licenses.

How do I apply for a business license in Hawaii?

You can apply for a business license online through the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division website. You can also apply in person at any Business Registration branch office.

Is there a fee for obtaining a business license in Hawaii?

Yes, there is a fee for obtaining a business license in Hawaii. The fees vary depending on the type of business license you apply for.

How long does it take to get a business license in Hawaii?

The processing time for a business license in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of business license you are applying for and the workload at the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

What type of permits may I need in addition to a business license in Hawaii?

Depending on the type of business you are operating in Hawaii, you may need to apply for additional permits or licenses. These may include, but are not limited to, a building permit, a sign permit, a zoning permit, a health permit, and a general excise tax (GET) license.

How can I find out what permits I need to operate my business in Hawaii?

You can check with the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division to determine what permits you need to operate your business in Hawaii. Additionally, you can contact your local county or city government to determine what permits may be required.

Do I need to register my business name in Hawaii?

Yes, in order to operate a business in Hawaii, you will need to register your business name with the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division.

What is required to register my business name in Hawaii?

In order to register a business name in Hawaii, you will need to provide the name of the business, the name and address of the business owner, and any other required information.

How long does it take to register a business name in Hawaii?

The processing time for registering a business name in Hawaii can vary depending on the workload at the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

How do I apply for a general excise tax (GET) license in Hawaii?

You can apply for a general excise tax (GET) license online through the State of Hawaii Department of Taxation website. You can also apply in person at any Taxation branch office.

Is there a fee for obtaining a general excise tax (GET) license in Hawaii?

Yes, there is a fee for obtaining a general excise tax (GET) license in Hawaii. The fees vary depending on the type of license you apply for.

How long does it take to get a general excise tax (GET) license in Hawaii?

The processing time for a general excise tax (GET) license in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of license you are applying for and the workload at the Department of Taxation. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

Do I need to register my business with the State of Hawaii?

Yes, you will need to register your business with the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division in order to operate a business in Hawaii.

What is required to register my business with the State of Hawaii?

In order to register your business with the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division, you will need to provide the name of the business, the name and address of the business owner, and any other required information.

How do I apply for a building permit in Hawaii?

You can apply for a building permit online through the State of Hawaii Department of Planning and Permitting website. You can also apply in person at any Planning and Permitting branch office.

Is there a fee for obtaining a building permit in Hawaii?

Yes, there is a fee for obtaining a building permit in Hawaii. The fees vary depending on the type of permit you apply for.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Hawaii?

The processing time for a building permit in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for and the workload at the Department of Planning and Permitting. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

How do I apply for a sign permit in Hawaii?

You can apply for a sign permit online through the State of Hawaii Department of Planning and Permitting website. You can also apply in person at any Planning and Permitting branch office.

Is there a fee for obtaining a sign permit in Hawaii?

Yes, there is a fee for obtaining a sign permit in Hawaii. The fees vary depending on the type of permit you apply for.

How long does it take to get a sign permit in Hawaii?

The processing time for a sign permit in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for and the workload at the Department of Planning and Permitting. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

How do I apply for a zoning permit in Hawaii?

You can apply for a zoning permit online through the State of Hawaii Department of Planning and Permitting website. You can also apply in person at any Planning and Permitting branch office.

Is there a fee for obtaining a zoning permit in Hawaii?

Yes, there is a fee for obtaining a zoning permit in Hawaii. The fees vary depending on the type of permit you apply for.

How long does it take to get a zoning permit in Hawaii?

The processing time for a zoning permit in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for and the workload at the Department of Planning and Permitting. Generally, processing times can range from one to four weeks.

Why Hawaii Licenses Permits is So Important

Licensing permits are essential for regulating businesses, professional services, and ensuring the safety and protection of both residents and visitors in Hawaii. Without proper licensing permits, there is no guarantee that businesses are operating in a legal and ethical manner, employees are qualified and competent, and consumers are protected from potential harm or fraud.

One of the main reasons why licensing permits are crucial in Hawaii is to ensure public safety. By obtaining a license or permit, businesses and professionals are required to adhere to certain standards and regulations set by the state. This helps to prevent malpractice, fraud, and other unethical practices that could potentially harm consumers. For example, licensed contractors must follow building codes and safety regulations to prevent accidents and ensure the structural integrity of buildings.

Additionally, licensing permits also play a vital role in protecting consumers from fraudulent activities. When a business or professional is licensed, it indicates that they have met specific requirements and have been authorized to operate in their respective field. This can help consumers make informed decisions when choosing services or products, knowing that they are working with legitimate and reputable businesses.

Moreover, licensing permits in Hawaii also help to maintain a level playing field for businesses. By requiring all businesses to obtain the necessary licenses and permits, it helps prevent unfair competition and ensures that all businesses are operating under the same regulations. This not only fosters a healthy business environment but also helps to promote economic growth and stability in the state.

In addition to public safety and consumer protection, licensing permits are also important for professional accountability. By obtaining a license or permit, professionals in various industries are held accountable for their actions and are required to maintain a certain level of competency and ethics. This not only benefits the individual professional but also helps to uphold the reputation and integrity of their respective industry.

Overall, licensing permits are essential for maintaining order, integrity, and accountability in Hawaii. They play a crucial role in ensuring public safety, protecting consumers from harm and fraud, maintaining a fair business environment, and upholding professional standards. Without proper licensing permits, the state risks jeopardizing the well-being of its residents and visitors, as well as its overall economic and social stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the business licenses required in Hawaii largely depend on the nature of your enterprise. While some state-specific requirements may exist, the type of business ultimately determines the necessary licenses. Some businesses might not need any licenses or permits to operate. To ensure compliance, it is strongly advised to consult with local authorities about any required licenses and permits for conducting business in your specific city or county within Hawaii.