Hawaii business license
Hawaii issues a General Excise Tax License through the Hawaii Department of Taxation. Your city or county may want its own license on top.
Hawaii details
- Statewide license
- Yes
- What it's called
- General Excise Tax License
- Issued by
- Hawaii Department of Taxation
- State feeOne-time fee paid at registration
- $20
- Local licenses
- Also check your city and county
Official source. Last checked November 2026. Fees are set by the state and confirmed again before we file.
Find my licenses for me
$99, for any company.
Questions
Do I need a business license in Hawaii?
Most businesses need the state's General Excise Tax License, and many cities and counties want their own as well.
Is an LLC the same as a business license?
No. Forming an LLC creates the company. A license is permission to operate, and you often need both.
What about a sales tax permit?
If you sell taxable goods or services, the state's tax agency issues that separately.