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State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Florida
Septic, HI
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Septic License Requirements in Hawaii
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
According to the State of Hawaii, Department of Health Wastewater Branch, “There are approximately 88,000 cesspools in the state, with nearly 50,000 on the Big Island, almost 14,000 on Kauai, over 12,000 on Maui, over 11,000 on Oahu and over 1,400 on Molokai.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic workers nationwide, and Hawaii employs 70 of them.
The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% by 2032, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Hawaii, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, data is currently unavailable on septic worker projections.
If you’re thinking about starting a septic business or working in the field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Hawaii?
Septic systems in Hawaii are referred to as Individual Wastewater Systems (IWS), which include septic tanks, aerobic treatment units, passive aerobic systems, and composting toilets. The Hawaii State Department of Health Wastewater Branch oversees and permits all of these systems.
To perform septic work in Hawai’i, you need to be a licensed contractor with one of the following classifications: C-9 - Cesspool Contractor, C-37a - Sewer & Drain Line Contractor. Licenses are issued by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional & Vocational Licensing Division.
Types of Septic Licenses in Hawaii
To work in Hawaii, you need to earn a general contractor license with a classification related to septic work. The requirements include being employed by a licensed contractor, gaining 4 years of supervisory work experience, and passing an examination in the appropriate classification.
C-9 - Cesspool Contractor
Permits the license holder to perform septic tank pumping, and install cesspools, drain fields, and septic tanks in compliance with the requirements of the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH).
C-37a - Sewer & Drain Line Contractor
Permits the license holder to install sewer lines from house to city sewer systems with connections, and to install septic tanks, package sewage treatment systems, and related work within property lines.
For site evaluations, contractors must work with a licensed engineer.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Hawaii
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must work for a licensed contractor and have 4 years of supervisory experience in the license classification for which you are applying.
Pass the licensing exam.
Submit a financial statement prepared by a licensed public accountant.
Obtain required insurance workers' compensation and general liability insurance.
Pay all fees
Complete the application online at cca.hawaii.gov/pvl or mail the application form to a Professional and Vocational Licensing Division office in Honolulu or Kona.
Pay the $50 application fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Hawaii?
The application fee is $50. The required exams cost $160 total. Once those are passed, the license fee runs $483 to $633, depending on the time of year you file the application.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic installation technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan cloud-based, all-in-one septic business software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
ServiceTitan features:
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in Hawaii?
It will take a minimum of 4 years to qualify for a septic license in Hawaii. However, you can gain work experience and also get paid by working for a licensed contractor.
Hawaii Septic Training Programs and Schools
Hawaii offers multiple training opportunities for workers who want to gain new skills in wastewater management. One option is the Water Resources Research Center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Hawaii Septic Licensing Exam Details
You must take and pass the Contractor Business and Law exam ($80 fee) and Trade exam ($80 fee). Both exams are administered via PSI.
Do I Need to Renew My Hawaii Septic License?
Yes. All licenses expire on Sept. 30 of even-numbered years. Renewal applications are mailed to all current licensees before Aug. 15 of the even-numbered year. Licensees must submit their renewal application and all required documents and fees by Sept. 30. The fee is $208.
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Does Hawaii Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
No, Hawaii does not offer reciprocity agreements with other states for contractor licenses. All applicants must meet the same licensing and examination requirements.
National Septic Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians and The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association offer certifications. Those and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Continuing Education
There are no continuing education requirements for general contractor licenses in Hawaii. However, it’s important to stay informed about emerging technology in the industry.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all septic industry news several ways:
Check top septic blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your septic business.
Listen to top septic podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
The states have licensing requirements for other trades, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, Plumbing, or Electrical license in Texas, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
