Verified October 8, 2026 against the practice act, board rules and sources cited below. The board decides every application. All states
What OTs miss in Hawaii
- Hawaii requires current NBCOT certification, not just a past exam pass, to get licensed.
- There is no CE requirement to renew a Hawaii OT or OTA license.
- A criminal history record check is only required from applicants who report a conviction.
Can I practice in Hawaii on an OT Compact privilege?
Hawaii is not an OT Compact member, so practicing here takes a Hawaii license.
- Not a compact member
Can an OT licensed in another state get a Hawaii license by endorsement?
Hawaii licenses OTs on the strength of current NBCOT certification rather than a separate endorsement route. Every applicant sends an original or electronic NBCOT verification of current certification directly to the program; a copy of the certificate or pocket card is not accepted.
Citation: Hawaii OT license application (OC-01); Hawaii OT/OTA FAQ
Which exams does Hawaii require for a license?
Applicants must have passed the NBCOT exam and hold current NBCOT certification. The application lists no state jurisprudence exam.
- NBCOT exam
- No state jurisprudence exam
Does Hawaii require fingerprints?
- No fingerprint requirement
Does Hawaii offer a temporary or limited OT license?
A temporary license is available to active-duty service members and spouses accompanying them on a permanent change of station to Hawaii, if their out-of-state license is in good standing and was actively used in the prior two years. It lasts for the duration of the service member's Hawaii assignment.
- Temporary or limited license available
Citation: Act 18, SLH 2021; Hawaii military and military spouse temporary license checklist
How often does a Hawaii OT license renew?
All licenses expire December 31 of even-numbered years, whatever the issue date. Hawaii has no continuing education requirement for renewal.
- Renews every 2 years
- 0 CE hours per cycle
Licensing in Hawaii?
For a license, we send your NBCOT score and verifications, file the application and carry the board correspondence. License by endorsement is $599 for an OT and $499 for an OTA.