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Taking on full construction projects in Hawaii requires you to hold a general building contractor license, often referred to as the B license. This credential from the Contractors License Board will let you bid on larger jobs, coordinate multiple trades, and oversee a wide range of projects across the islands. 

What Is a Hawaii General Building Contractor? 

General building contractors have businesses involving building structures for shelter or support. These are complex projects that bring together a wide range of specialties, including concrete, framing, roofing, and more, all on the same job. 

Managing all of these moving parts requires a general building contractor license under Hawaii law. This license doesn’t mean you’re a specialist in every trade. Instead, it means you have the necessary knowledge and skills to oversee these dynamic projects. 

A B license from the Contractors License Board enables contractors to manage and supervise projects. Individual tradespeople would instead obtain a C license in their specific specialization. 

Minimum Qualifications for a Hawaii Building Contractor License 

The Hawaii general building license has basic requirements, including being at least 18 years old and maintaining a good reputation for honesty and financial integrity. More specifically, individuals must show four years of supervisory experience over the last ten years. That experience must involve directing crews on site, not just performing labor. 

The Contractors License Board carefully verifies the background of each applicant through notarized experience certificates. They’ll also require a chronological list of the projects you’ve worked on. Each certificate must detail your on-site supervision, and the project list must include contract amounts, methods, and your supervising hours. 

Filing Your Contractor Application 

If you meet these requirements, what’s the next step to get your Hawaii general building license? First, you’ll need to file an application with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional & Vocational Licensing Division. There are deadlines to meet if you want your application reviewed and your exam scheduled in time. 

You’ll need to include a wide range of details for this application beyond just your work history. This typically consists of a credit report, a financial statement from a certified public accountant, state tax clearance, and any details about your business entity. 

Passing the Hawaii General Building Exams 

The Hawaii general building license exam is a four-hour closed-book test with around 80 questions. It covers topics including sitework, plan reading, estimating, safety, coordination, and a variety of specific trades. There is also a separate business and law exam focused on licensing, contract requirements, regulations, and accounting. 

You’ll need a passing score of 75% on both exams to get your license. From there, you’ll need to submit proof of general liability insurance, workers’ comp coverage if you have employees, and any required contractor bond to receive your license. 

Get Started on Earning Your Hawaii General Building License 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career and obtain your Hawaii general building contractor license? RocketCert provides the online exam prep opportunity you need to prepare yourself for qualifying for your license. Enroll today to get the edge you need to tackle your general building contractor license in Hawaii.