Introduction
Hawaii's unique geographic position and healthcare needs create a distinctive licensing environment. The Hawaii Medical Board requires 40 hours of Category 1 CME biennially with no specific topic mandates at the state level.
Important: Hawaii is NOT a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC). Physicians must apply directly through the Hawaii Medical Board for licensure.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Hawaii medical license renewal in 2026.
Hawaii Medical Board Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Authority | Hawaii Medical Board |
| Parent Agency | Professional & Vocational Licensing Division |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (every 2 years) |
| Renewal Deadline | January 31 of even-numbered years |
| IMLC Status | NOT a member |
| Phone | (808) 586-2699 |
| Website | cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/medical |
CME Requirements
Basic CME Requirements
| Requirement | MDs | DOs |
|---|---|---|
| Total Hours | 40 hours per 2 years | 40 hours per 2 years |
| Credit Type | AMA PRA Category 1 | Category 1 or 1-A |
| Mandatory Topics | None at state level | None at state level |
2026 Renewal Cycle
The 2026 renewal covers the period February 1, 2024 to January 31, 2026. Beginning with this cycle, 40 hours are required (increased from 20 hours for initial renewals).
What Does NOT Satisfy CME
The following do NOT meet Hawaii's CME requirement:
- Certification with a specialty board
- Passing a specialty board certification exam
- Membership alone in a medical organization (such as a medical society or association)
Federal DEA MATE Act
DEA-registered practitioners (except DVM-only license holders) must complete the 8-hour one-time MATE Act training on opioid/substance use disorders. This became effective June 27, 2023.
Renewal Timeline
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| February 1, 2024 | Current CME period begins |
| January 31, 2026 | License expiration date |
| After January 31, 2026 | License expired, cannot practice |
Online Renewal Process
- Access Hawaii PVL Portal: Visit cca.hawaii.gov/pvl
- Login: Use your existing credentials
- Complete Application: Answer all required questions
- Certify CME: Attest to 40 hours of Category 1 CME
- Pay Fee: Submit renewal fee
- Save Confirmation: Keep receipt for records
Consequences of Non-Renewal
| Status | Consequence |
|---|---|
| After January 31 | License expired |
| Expired license | Unlicensed, may not practice |
| Practice while expired | Subject to disciplinary action |
Hawaii-Specific Considerations
Non-IMLC Status
Hawaii is NOT a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. This means:
- No expedited IMLC pathway available
- Must apply directly through the Hawaii Medical Board
- Cannot use Hawaii as a State of Principal License for IMLC
Island Healthcare Challenges
Hawaii's geographic isolation creates unique healthcare delivery challenges. Telemedicine is increasingly important, though licensure is still required.
January 31 Even-Year Deadline
All Hawaii medical licenses expire January 31 of even-numbered years, regardless of when initially issued. Plan accordingly for 2026, 2028, etc.
Board Certification Not Accepted
Unlike many states, Hawaii does NOT accept specialty board certification as a substitute for CME completion. You must complete the full 40 hours.
Key Takeaways
- 40 hours of Category 1 CME per biennial period
- Hawaii is NOT an IMLC member—no expedited pathway
- January 31 even-year deadline (2026, 2028, etc.)
- Board certification does NOT substitute for CME
- 8-hour DEA MATE Act requirement (one-time, federal)
- No mandatory state CME topics
Conclusion
Hawaii's non-IMLC status requires physicians to apply directly through the state board. The 40-hour CME requirement with no mandatory topics provides flexibility, but board certification cannot substitute for actual CME hours.
Use CredentialMate to track your CME progress, monitor the January 31 deadline, and ensure compliance with Hawaii's biennial requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hawaii part of the IMLC?
No. Hawaii is NOT a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. Physicians must apply directly through the Hawaii Medical Board for licensure.
How many CME hours does Hawaii require?
Hawaii requires 40 hours of AMA PRA Category 1 CME per biennial period. For DOs, 40 hours of Category 1 or 1-A credit are required.
When is the Hawaii license renewal deadline?
All Hawaii medical licenses expire January 31 of even-numbered years. The next deadline is January 31, 2026.
Can board certification satisfy Hawaii CME requirements?
No. Unlike many states, Hawaii does NOT accept specialty board certification, passing board exams, or medical society membership as a substitute for CME completion.
Are there mandatory CME topics in Hawaii?
There are no state-mandated CME topics. However, DEA registrants must complete the federal 8-hour MATE Act training (one-time) on opioid/substance use disorders.
References
[1]: Hawaii Medical Board - Professional & Vocational Licensing
https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/medical/
[2]: AMA Ed Hub - Hawaii CME Requirements
https://edhub.ama-assn.org/state-cme/Hawaii
[3]: Hawaii CME Requirements - BoardVitals
https://www.boardvitals.com/cme-coach/hawaii
[4]: IMLC - Participating States (Hawaii not listed)
https://www.imlcc.org/participating-states/