BUSINESS LICENSE GUIDE

Hawaii Business Licenses & Permits

This guide explains Business License requirements in Hawaii, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.

HawaiiBusiness License
State Business ResourceHawaii Department of Taxation
EligibilityHawaii uses several business licenses and tax registrations rather than one universal license. A General Excise Tax (GET) license is required for people and entities conducting taxable business activity in Hawaii. Additional licenses apply to activities such as transient accommodations, liquor and tobacco.
License & Permit CostsThe Hawaii GET license has a one-time $20 registration fee. Other tax licenses have separate fees; for example, transient accommodations, liquor and tobacco permits have their own registration or annual charges.
License ValidityA GET license has no routine annual expiration. Other Hawaii tax licenses can renew annually on dates specified by the Department of Taxation.

Last verified: 23/09/2026

WHAT THIS PAGE COVERS

Hawaii at a glance

This guide explains Business License requirements in Hawaii, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.

How Business Licensing Works

<p>Businesses conducting business activity in Hawaii generally need a GET license. Entities conducting business in the state may also need Hawaii Business Express entity registration, employer accounts and activity-specific licenses.</p>

Costs, timing and validity

Eligibility / age

Hawaii uses several business licenses and tax registrations rather than one universal license. A General Excise Tax (GET) license is required for people and entities conducting taxable business activity in Hawaii. Additional licenses apply to activities such as transient accommodations, liquor and tobacco.

Initial cost

The Hawaii GET license has a one-time $20 registration fee. Other tax licenses have separate fees; for example, transient accommodations, liquor and tobacco permits have their own registration or annual charges.

Renewal cost

The GET license itself is a one-time registration and remains active until the business closes, surrenders it or the license is revoked. Certain other licenses require annual renewal.

Validity

A GET license has no routine annual expiration. Other Hawaii tax licenses can renew annually on dates specified by the Department of Taxation.

Documents and information to prepare

Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.

The application generally requires the business name, ownership/entity information, address, business activity and tax information requested on Form BB-1. A federal identification number is required when applicable.

How to apply

01

Complete Form BB-1 and register through Hawaii Tax Online.

02

Select any additional tax licenses that apply and pay the applicable fee.

03

Use Hawaii Business Express for entity registration when required.

Licensing & Compliance Checks

<p>A general GET license does not require an examination. Regulated professions and activities may require separate qualifications, exams or inspections.</p>

Renewal and ongoing requirements

<p>GET is not renewed annually. Businesses must keep required tax returns and accounts current and renew separate licenses such as transient accommodations or tobacco permits on their stated schedules.</p>

Processing time

Hawaii states that GET registration is issued immediately for in-person applications, generally takes 5–7 business days online, and 4–6 weeks by mail.

Important: This page is an independent informational resource. Requirements, fees and procedures can change. Verify the current rules with the relevant official authority before applying.