Electrical Contractor Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a electrical contractor in Honolulu, Honolulu County, Hawaii.

$400 -- $1500 4–10 weeks to obtain all licenses 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Honolulu / Honolulu County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Hawaii Electrical Board — Electrical Contractor License

Electrical contractors in Hawaii must hold a C-13 Electrical Contractor License from the Hawaii Contractors License Board. A Master Electrician must be on staff. Requires passing a state exam.

$250–$400 (initial)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
3

Honolulu County / Honolulu Electrical Permit (per project)

An electrical permit must be obtained from the local building department for each electrical project. A final inspection is required upon completion.

$50–$400 per project1–5 business days
Official government source

Hawaii State Requirements

1 requirement
1

Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

$20 (one-time registration fee)2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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