Business License by State

Business License by State › Hawaii

Hawaii business license (2026)

State business license or registration. The Hawaii Department of Taxation says: “Businesses operating in Hawaii are required to register with the Department to obtain a license”

  • State page read October 21, 2026
  • Quoted from the state

Hawaii at a glance

State rule
State business license or registration
Next step
Apply through the agency named above before you operate.
Forming an LLC
$51 with the Hawaii Secretary of State
Best overall in Hawaii

Mainstay Filing

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

$199 / year, same at renewal

  • LLC formation, prepared and filed
  • Registered agent, all year
  • EIN application (with an SSN or ITIN)
  • Annual report filed every year it is due where the state requires one
  • Compliance reminders and stored documents

Price from the Mainstay Filing pricing and FAQ pages, checked October 21, 2026. State fees are passed through at cost and shown before you pay.

Questions

Does Hawaii require a business license?

State business license or registration. The Hawaii Department of Taxation says: “Businesses operating in Hawaii are required to register with the Department to obtain a license”

Who do I contact in Hawaii?

Hawaii Department of Taxation (page linked below), your city or county clerk, and the Hawaii Secretary of State for forming the company.

Is a Hawaii LLC the same as a license?

No. Forming the LLC is a filing with the Hawaii Secretary of State, which charges $51. A license, where one applies, is a separate step.

Sources