Hawaii renewal guide
Specialty Contractor (C-5 Cabinet, Millwork & Carpentry)
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
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
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 Specialty Contractor License (C-5 Cabinet, Millwork & Carpentry)
The Hawaii Contractors License Board issues the C-5 Specialty Contractor license for cabinet, millwork, and carpentry remodeling and repair work. This classification covers the installation of cabinetry, built-in furniture, interior trim, and carpentry-related remodeling work.
What This License Authorizes
C-5 licensees may perform cabinet installation, millwork, interior trim carpentry, and carpentry remodeling and repairs. This includes kitchen and bathroom cabinet installation, built-in shelving, custom woodwork, and related finish carpentry. This license does not authorize structural framing work (which falls under C-6).
Insurance Requirements
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 per accident for property damage
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Bond Requirements
The Board may require a surety bond on a case-by-case basis, with amounts ranging from $5,000 to $300,000. Because the bond amount varies by applicant, it is not a fixed requirement for all licensees.
Application and Fees
- Application Fee: $50
- Examination Fee: $75 per part ($150 total)
- Initial License Fee: $663 (first year of biennium) or $494 (second year of biennium)
- Biennial Renewal Fee: $338
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years, by September 30 of even-numbered years
- Renewal Fee: $338
- No Continuing Education Required
- Grace Period: Forfeited licenses may be restored within 60 days by paying renewal fees plus a penalty fee
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Unlicensed contracting activity in Hawaii is a misdemeanor under HRS Chapter 444, with 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.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA).*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- experience_verification
Source notes
Hawaii DCCA Contractors License Board, HRS Chapter 444, HAR Title 16 Chapter 77 . https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/contractor/
Rules move. Check Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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Hawaii checklist
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