When most people think about Hawaii, they think of sandy beaches, palm trees, and hula dancers. What they might not realize is that Hawaii is also home to some of the best hair schools in the country. If you have a passion for hair and beauty, then becoming a hairstylist in Hawaii could be the perfect career for you. In addition to the stunning natural scenery, there are many benefits to becoming a hairstylist in Hawaii. For starters, you can expect to receive a competitive salary and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. There are also many opportunities to advance your career by working with top hair professionals. So if you’re looking for a change of pace, or simply want to learn from the best, then consider pursuing a career in hair styling in Hawaii.
Check out our comprehensive list of hair schools in Hawaii and learn more about the requirements to become a licensed hairstylist in this beautiful state.
Hair Schools in Hawaii
What are the state requirements for hairstylists in Hawaii?
When you attend a hair school in Hawaii the state will require you to complete at least 1,250 hours of classroom time to move on in the licensing process. If you don’t want to go the traditional beauty school route and instead prefer hands-on training, you can do an apprenticeship under a licensed hairstylist for 2,500 hours. Each approach can help you get your license, it’s just a matter of which one works best for you.
Once you’ve completed course requirements at an accredited school you’ll need to apply for a beauty operator application with Hawaii’s Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, which has a $20 application fee. When you have this, you can temporarily work, even before you complete the state exam.
Hawaii uses Prometric as its hair design theory test provider, you will need to register with them and pay a $90 exam fee. Once you’ve passed the exam, you just need to apply for full licensure with the state.
How Much Does Hair School Cost in Hawaii?
Total cost for a cosmetology or hair design school in Hawaii is on the higher end when comparing it to most states. With tuition and fees averaging out to around $19,000 according to collegetuitioncompare.com, once you factor in the cost of books and supplies you’ll likely be spending at least $22,000. Fortunately, there are some ways to earn financial aid or grants that can help reduce your overall expenses.
Required Skills and Classes
You’ll be absorbing a lot of information and learning many new skills when you enter cosmetology school to become a hairstylist in Hawaii. While the curricula at many schools can vary a bit, there are some general areas you’ll be learning about such as:
- Hair coloring
- Hair styling and hair cutting
- Biology of hair and the scalp
- Chemical waving and relaxing
- Wigs and extensions
- Client safety
- Infection control
- State laws and statutes
- Ethics
You’ll also learn proper techniques for shampooing and rinsing hair, scalp care, perms, and updos. Beyond that, you’ll also learn critical skills focused on helping you pass the hair design exam, and important professional skills like shop management, soft skills, record keeping, stocking, and more.
State Licensing Exam
If you meet the criteria and pay the $90 fee, Prometric will send you approval of your application along with information on the date and time for your exam. The exam is 100 questions and you’ll have two hours to complete it. If you fail on your first try, you will receive information from Prometric on the steps to retake the exam.
How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Hawaii?
Hairstylists in Hawaii are among the highest paid in the United States, with an average annual salary of $43,370, or an average of $20.85 per hour. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that places them fifth nationally.
Does Hawaii Have Continuing Education Requirements for Hairstylists?
Hawaii is a state that requires continuing education when hair designers renew their license. However, to keep a license active, hairstylists need to renew their license by December 31 on each odd-numbered year and pay a $146 fee.
Contact Information for Licensing Board
To contact the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, use the various methods of contact found below.
Website: Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (808) 586-2692
