Hawaii Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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Hawaii Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Hawaii requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Hawaii as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Hawaii Real estate broker license required. Hawaii business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Hawaii Real Estate Commission.
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 60 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Hawaii state exam
Application fee: $245
License fee: $125
Exam note: Hawaii has unique real estate laws covering leasehold interests
Continuing Education 20 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Hawaii broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Hawaii Hawaii's business economy is concentrated in tourism, hospitality, and retail. Business brokers use the real estate broker license. M&A activity is smaller in volume but specialized. Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions and DCCA oversee financial services licensing. FINRA Series 79 applies for securities-related M&A advisory.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Hawaii 1. Complete 60 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Hawaii state exam 3. Obtain your Hawaii salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 80 hrs broker pre-license coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility