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The Standard License is a NASDTEC Stage 3 License designed for educators with three (3) or more years of full-time experience. This license has a validity period of five (5) years and expires on June 30th. To qualify for a Standard School Counselor Certification, candidates must fulfill several requirements, including clearing the Hawaiʻi Teacher Standards Board (HTSB) Professional Fitness check, submitting a signed U.S. Social Security Card, and obtaining a valid government-issued photo identification.
Additionally, candidates can satisfy education and experience requirement by holding a valid out-of-state license (reciprocity), or possessing a valid National Board Certification in school counseling.
To renew a Standard License, applicants must initiate the renewal process as early as January 1st of the expiration year. Processing times may extend up to six (6) weeks during HTSB’s peak application period, particularly if licensing specialists are awaiting supporting documentation from relevant agencies, schools, or organizations.
A thorough fitness assessment is compulsory to ensure applicants adhere to the board’s established criteria for professional comportment and suitability for the counseling position. This requirement is typically for those coming from out-of-state considering most renewals are for current Hawaii school counselors who have already completed this requirement.
Licensed educators are obligated to promptly disclose any infractions to the board within 30 days, including instances of termination, resignations executed under duress of termination, and any felony or misdemeanor convictions. As of April 1, 2022, HTSB mandates applicants to disclose their Social Security Number and submit a readable card before issuance or renewal of licenses, permits, or certificates.
To begin the application process for a Hawaii School Counselor license, applicants must complete their profile and application on the Department of Education website. For additional assistance regarding the Standard School Counselor Certification, individuals may contact the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at 808-586-2600 or reach out to a specialist via email at htsb@hawaii.gov. Processing of applications may extend up to six (6) weeks during HTSB’s peak application period.