How often do I need to renew my Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching) in Hawaii?

The Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching) in Hawaii must be renewed every 24 months.

Hawaii renewal guide

Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching)

Q: How much does it cost to renew a Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching) in Hawaii?

The renewal cost for a Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching) in Hawaii is $338.00.

Q: What happens if my Specialty Contractor (C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching) expires in Hawaii?

Unlicensed contracting activity in Hawaii is a misdemeanor under HRS Chapter 444. Each day the violation continues after written notice constitutes a separate offense. Violators may face fines up to $5,000 per violation. Violation of a cease and desist order carries a fine of not less than $10,000 per offense.

If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.

See this alongside the other 2 Hawaii license pages we track.

Start here

What matters before you file.

Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.

Issuing authority

Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA)

Renewal period

Every 24 months

Renewal fee

$338.00

Bond requirement

No

Insurance requirement

Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

1
Check the insurance certificates

Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
2
File with the board

File through Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA) and pay the $338.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
3
Leave room for processing

Typical processing time is 60 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

Hawaii C-17 Excavating, Grading & Trenching Specialty Contractor License

The C-17 license authorizes excavating, grading, and trenching work in Hawaii — digging, moving, and placing earthen material for cuts, fills, grades, and trenches, including the use of explosives in connection with that work. Contractors performing C-17 work without a license face civil fines under HRS §444-23(c).

C-17 Covers Earthwork Including Explosive Use

Under Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 16, Chapter 77, the C-17 classification covers digging, moving, and placing earthen material for cuts, fills, grades, and trenches, including explosive use. This classification does not authorize utility installation — plumbing, electrical, or conduit work requires a separate specialty license.

Carry Insurance Before Your License Issues

General liability coverage is required at $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident (bodily injury) and $50,000 per accident (property damage). Workers' compensation is required if you have employees. Coverage lapses cause automatic license forfeiture.

Apply for $50; Budget $338 to Renew Every Two Years by September 30

The application fee is $50 (non-refundable). Applicants pass a two-part exam through PSI Services — Part I Business & Law and Part II Trade, $75 per part. Initial license fees depend on timing: $663 in the first year of the biennium (October of an even year through September of the next odd year); $494 in the second year. The biennial renewal fee is $338, due by September 30 of each even-numbered year. A forfeited license can be restored through November 30 of the renewal year by filing all fees plus a penalty; after that, a new application is required.

The Board May Require a Surety Bond

Under HRS §444-16.5, the Contractors License Board may require a surety bond — minimum $5,000 — based on your financial condition and experience. This is discretionary, not universal. If required, you must maintain bond coverage and keep evidence on file with the board.

Official links