Hawaii Nurse License: How to Get Licensed as a Travel RN

If you're an experienced RN looking to take your skills to the islands, understanding Hawaii's unique licensing requirements is essential. Unlike many U.S. states, Hawaii isn't part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means you'll need to apply for a separate license before you can start working. This guide walks you through the entire process from eligibility and application steps to costs, timelines, and tips for travel nurses to help you get licensed and ready for your next assignment.

Is Hawaii a compact nursing state?

No, Hawaii is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses with multistate licenses from compact states must still apply for a separate Hawaii license to practice there.

The NLC allows nurses to practice in other member states without needing additional licensure. Since Hawaii hasn’t enacted legislation to join the compact, all nurses must obtain a Hawaii-specific license. This is especially important for travel nurses planning assignments in Hawaii.

Hawaii nurse license eligibility requirements

To apply for a Hawaii RN license, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN)

• Successful NCLEX-RN exam (for new graduates)

• Active license in good standing (for endorsement applicants)

In addition, all applicants must:

• Undergo fingerprint-based background checks

• Provide government-issued identification and legal presence documents

• Submit a signed "Verification of Employment" form if applying for a temporary permit

Step-by-step guide to getting a Hawaii RN license

Whether you’re a seasoned travel RN or a new travel nurse, here’s how to secure your Hawaii license:

1. Verify your current license status – Ensure your current RN license is active and unencumbered.

2. Prepare transcripts and exam scores – Collect documents from your nursing school and NCLEX results.

3. Complete license verifications – Request verifications from all states where you’ve held a license.

4. Get fingerprinted – Schedule electronic fingerprinting through Fieldprint

5. Submit your application – Choose endorsement or examination, then pay the associated fee.

6. Request a temporary permit – If eligible and needed, submit employer-verified documentation.

7. Wait for processing – The board will review your application before issuing a license.

License by endorsement

Already licensed in another U.S. state? You’ll likely apply via endorsement, which is ideal for experienced RNs and travel nurses.

You’ll need to:

• Submit verifications through NURSYS or state boards

• Include a Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB)

• Provide all required personal, educational, and legal documents

Temporary permits are also available during processing, provided you’ve secured Hawaii employment. (Not all travel contracts accept temporary licenses, so check requirements prior to applying for a temporary permit.)

New license by examination

If you’re newly graduated or not yet licensed, apply by examination:

• Submit your transcripts, identification, and legal presence documentation

• Schedule and complete electronic fingerprinting

• Await Authorization to Test (ATT) from the board

• Pass the NCLEX-RN

• Receive your Hawaii RN license upon successful exam results

Temporary Nursing License in Hawaii

Yes, Hawaii offers temporary permits to qualified applicants seeking licensure by endorsement.

These permits:

• Require verified employment in Hawaii

• Are only valid for the named employer

• Help travel nurses start work while their permanent license processes

Temporary licenses are typically processed within 15–20 business days. New exam applicants are not eligible.

How long does it take to get a Hawaii nurse license?

Processing times vary based on your application path:

Submitting a complete application and early employer verification can reduce delays.

Hawaii nurse license fees

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Renewing your Hawaii RN license

Hawaii RN licenses expire June 30 of odd-numbered years and must be renewed every two years.

To renew:

• Pay the renewal fee ($196)

• Complete a continuing competency activity

• Apply through Hawaii’s MyPVL portal

Avoiding lapses is essential; restoring a license requires additional steps and fees.

Travel nursing in Hawaii: what to expect

Hawaii is a dream travel nurse assignment, but licensing logistics can delay your start if not planned for.

Here’s what to know:

• You’ll need a Hawaii-specific license, even with a compact license

• Some employers may cover application or permit fees

• Processing can take 6–8 weeks — consider applying early or requesting a temporary permit

• Nomad Health streamlines the process with transparent pay, no recruiters, and easy job matching