Professional and Vocational
Licensing (PVL)

Examination Branch : This branch ensures the integrity of the licensing process by arranging the administration of all examinations. Staff members work to confirm the validity and reliability of exams, advising boards on technical aspects to ensure testing remains a consistent measure of professional competency.

Administration Branch serves as the liaison between the director of the department and the 25 boards and commissions administratively attached to DCCA.  On a daily basis, the Administration Branch handles board affairs such as the coordinating, preparing, facilitating and recording of board meetings; ensuring board compliance with applicable laws that guide and direct their conduct; and implementing board decisions on applications, policies and procedures, and disciplinary actions.  The Administration Branch also responds to requests for interpretation of the licensing laws and rules; oversees licensing and examination activity; and guides and assists with regulatory compliance issues.  The same activities are done for the 27 programs (absent the necessity of board meetings) on behalf of the director of the department.  There are also substantial coordination and facilitation activities performed by the Administration Branch with other state, county, and federal agencies involved with licensing and regulatory issues.

Real Estate Branch serves as the liaison between the director of the department and the Real Estate Commission, and performs the same functions as the Administration Branch for real estate licensing and regulation, and condominium property regimes.  With the largest volume of applicants, licensees, and registrations, the Branch administers the Real Estate Recovery Fund, Real Estate Education Trust Fund, and the Condominium Education Trust Fund.  The Branch also administers education and research programs in the field of real estate and condominiums.

In summary , all Branches within PVL work toward efficient and expedient processing of applications, licenses, and renewals to ensure the public has choices amongst competent, licensed practitioners.

PVL continues to forge ahead with its initiatives to improve accessibility to licensing services and information, and to deregulate and streamline the licensing process without compromising consumer protection.  PVL is committed to working with licensees and the public to achieve the optimum balance between thoughtful and fair regulation, and consumer protection.  In these difficult economic times, PVL is mindful of the strain on Hawaii’s businesses and seeks to integrate licensing measures and procedures that will facilitate business.  Ultimately, PVL’s goal is to achieve and facilitate a fair marketplace for the State of Hawaii.