Hawaii Respiratory Therapist Licensing Guide

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License Overview

We have not found an interstate compact that covers Respiratory Therapists in Hawaii. Plan on meeting Hawaii's own requirements before you practice there.

How to Get a Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License by Endorsement

Hawaii uses an online portal endorsement process for Respiratory Therapists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $340 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Hawaii board portal
2. Request license verification from current state (via NBRC or direct) (can run concurrently)
3. Complete any state-specific requirements (background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
4. Await board review and license issuance

License verification is handled through NBRC or direct board verification. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website for status updates on your application.

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License Fees

Endorsement application: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Hawaii Temporary Respiratory Therapist License

We have not found a temporary license option on the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License Processing Time

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist endorsement applications typically take 3-4 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 18-21 days (if application is complete, NBRC verification is expedited, and background check clears immediately).

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications on a rolling basis with no published expedite track; applications submitted mid-month may wait for next review cycle
• NBRC verification requests can take 1-2 weeks if applicant's current state board is slow to respond; direct verification adds variability
• State-specific background check requirements (Hawaii-specific fingerprinting) can delay processing if not completed before board review begins

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' site. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist Continuing Education

Contact the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs for current continuing education requirements.

Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 3 years, expiring June 30 every three years (2026, 2029, 2032), regardless of when the license was issued — $270 via Hawaii Board of Respiratory Care portal
• Renewal window: Renewals accepted approximately May 4 through June 30 of the renewal year (most recently May 4, 2026 — June 30, 2026 for the 2026 triennial renewal)
• Late penalty: The license is forfeited, and you can restore it within 1 year after expiration for $370 (active status) or $112 (inactive status), and after 1 year it is terminated and you must apply as a new applicant

Hawaii Licensing Board and Resources

Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Board Website · Application Portal

Phone: (808) 586-3000

Email: [email protected]