Hawaii contractor license bond
Usually not requiredOnly if you can't prove financial responsibility or net worth.
Under HRS chapter 444, the CLB may require contractors to post a surety bond of not less than $5,000, with the actual amount set case by case from the applicant's financial condition. A licensee must keep the bond on file, and after maintaining it for at least one year may apply to have it waived by demonstrating financial integrity. Because the bond is board-imposed and waivable rather than a flat universal requirement, Hawaii is best treated as conditional. [Source: CLB ↗]
Good to know
There's no single fixed amount, the board sets your bond (minimum $5,000) based on your finances, and you can seek a waiver after one year.
Estimate your premium
You pay a percentage of the bond amount each year, based on credit.
About 1.5–3.0% of a $25,000 bond.
Estimate only. Your real rate is set by the surety after a quick credit check, and the premium is typically nonrefundable once the bond is issued.
How to get bonded and licensed in Hawaii
- 1Apply for your contractor license or registration with CLB.
- 2Prove financial responsibility (net worth) if you can — for most contractors that means no surety bond is required.
- 3If you can't meet the financial test, post the surety bond instead and submit it with your application.
- 4Carry any required insurance and keep your credential active at renewal.
Hawaii contractor bond FAQ
Does Hawaii require a contractor license bond?
Not for most contractors. Hawaii's Contractors License Board may require a surety bond of at least $5,000, sized to your finances, and the bond can be waived after a year if you prove financial integrity.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in Hawaii?
You don't pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium that's a small percentage of it, usually around 1–3% with good credit and more while your credit is still building. Use the calculator above to estimate the premium for your bond amount.
Who regulates contractor licensing in Hawaii?
Hawaii Contractors License Board (CLB) sets the rules. There's no single fixed amount, the board sets your bond (minimum $5,000) based on your finances, and you can seek a waiver after one year.
What does a contractor license bond protect?
A contractor license bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, not you. It guarantees you'll follow the state's contractor laws; if you break them and someone is owed money, they can file a claim against the bond, and you must repay the surety.
Is the bond premium refundable?
Generally no. Once the bond is issued, the premium is earned by the surety and is typically nonrefundable, even if you never have a claim. Most bonds run one to two years, and you renew to keep your license active.
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Bond requirements and amounts are set by CLB and can change. Confirm the current figure with the authority before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice.