Aloha. If you’ve ever dreamed of trading snow days for beach days, grading papers with the sound of waves in the background, and calling Honolulu, Maui, or the Big Island home, you’re in the right place. Becoming a licensed teacher in Hawaii is absolutely achievable and we’re here to walk you through every single step in the friendliest way possible.
Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a career-changer, or moving from another state, this guide breaks everything down clearly and honestly. Let’s get you ready to inspire Hawaii’s keiki (children).https://takemypraxisexam.com/
Why Teach in Hawaii? (Besides the Obvious Beauty)
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Year-round tropical weather
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Small class sizes compared to many mainland states
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Strong community culture and respect for educators
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Competitive starting salaries (especially on Oahu) plus island cost-of-living adjustments
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Loan forgiveness and housing assistance programs unique to Hawaii
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The chance to integrate Hawaiian culture, language, and outdoor learning into your classroom every day
Now, let’s get to the actual roadmap.
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree (Any Major Works)
Hawaii does NOT require your undergraduate degree to be in education. English majors, biology graduates, history buffs, and even business majors become excellent teachers here every year. Complete at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
Step 2: Complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program
You have three main paths:
Path A – Traditional University Route Enroll in a state-approved teacher preparation program in Hawaii (University of Hawaii at Manoa, Chaminade University, Hawaii Pacific University, or others) or an approved out-of-state program. These programs combine coursework with student teaching.
Path B – Alternative Certification (Perfect for Career Changers) Programs like Teach Away Hawaii, Leeward Community College’s Alternative Certification, or national programs such as iteach allow you to start teaching full-time while completing coursework at night or online.
Path C – Moving to Hawaii from Another State If you already hold a valid, full teaching license from another state, you may qualify for reciprocity and only need to pass Hawaii-specific tests (more on those below).
Step 3: Pass the Required Praxis Exams
This is the part most future Hawaii teachers search for and the exact reason you found this guide!
Hawaii uses Praxis exams administered by ETS. The tests you need depend on the grade level and subject you want to teach.
Commonly required exams:
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Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics) – often waived with a high enough SAT/ACT score
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Praxis Subject Assessments (formerly Praxis II) in your content area (Elementary Education, English, Math, Social Studies, Biology, Special Education, etc.)
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Pedagogy exam for your grade band (PLT: Principles of Learning and Teaching)
Pro tip: Many candidates feel overwhelmed by the content, timing, or test anxiety. If you want to remove all stress and guarantee your scores, visit TakeMyPraxisExam.com. Our experienced educators take the exams for you discreetly and securely so you can focus on your move to the islands instead of study guides.
Step 4: Submit Your Application to the Hawaii Teachers Standards Board (HTSB)
Create an account on the HTSB online licensing portal. Required documents usually include:
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Official transcripts
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Verification of your completed educator preparation program
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Passing Praxis score reports
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Background check and fingerprints
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Application fee ($150–$240 depending on your path)
Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks, so apply early.
Step 5: Secure a Teaching Job
While your license is processing, start applying!
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Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) is the largest employer and posts jobs year-round at hawaiipublicschools.org
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Charter schools and private schools (Punahou, Iolani, Kamehameha) hire separately
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Many schools offer signing bonuses and relocation stipends for high-need areas (Special Education, Hawaiian Language Immersion, STEM, etc.)
Salary and Benefits Overview
2024–2025 HIDOE starting salary for a Bachelor’s degree holder is approximately $50,000–$52,000, with automatic step increases every year. Master’s and Doctorate holders start higher. Teachers on neighbor islands often receive additional geographic differentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a teacher in Hawaii? Traditional route: 4–5 years (bachelor’s + preparation program). Alternative certification: 1–2 years while working.
Do I need to know Hawaiian language? Not required, but highly valued especially for Hawaiian Immersion positions.
Can I teach with an out-of-state license right away? Yes! Hawaii offers a three-year Provisional License while you complete any missing requirements (usually just the Praxis tests).
Is the cost of living really that high? Yes, especially housing. Many new teachers share rentals or live in teacher housing villages offered by some schools.
Are there loan forgiveness programs? Absolutely. Hawaii participates in federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The state also offers the Hawaii Educator Loan Forgiveness Program for high-need fields.
What if I’m nervous about passing the Praxis? You’re not alone. Thousands of teachers-to-be feel the same pressure. That’s exactly why TakeMyPraxisExam.com exists we handle the exams so you can secure your license quickly and confidently.
Will I need a car on Oahu? Most teachers say yes. Public transit exists but having a car makes life (and weekend adventures) much easier.
Can I teach in Hawaiian Immersion schools? Yes! These positions are in high demand and often come with extra pay incentives.
Ready to Make the Move?
Teaching in Hawaii is more than a job it’s a lifestyle most people only dream about. Turquoise water, friendly communities, and students who say “Aloha” every morning are waiting for you.
The only thing standing between you and your Hawaii classroom is finishing those requirements especially the Praxis exams.
If you want the fastest, least stressful path to your Hawaii teaching license, head over to https://takemypraxisexam.com/ right now and let us take care of the testing for you.
You focus on packing your sunscreen and slippers. We’ll handle the rest.
Mahalo for reading, and we’ll see you in the islands soon.