H.B. 1816 Summary

• Establishes a Tour Guide Licensing Program within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, administered by the director.

• Prohibits unlicensed individuals from engaging in tour guiding for compensation or using the title "licensed tour guide" without a valid license; violations subject to fines of up to $1,000 per day.

• Requires tour guide license applicants to complete the Professional Standards Tour Certification program offered by the University of Hawaii or another director-approved program.

• Exempts government employees, vehicle operators providing commentary to passengers, licensed professionals acting within their scope, museum/amusement park employees, and employees of nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations from licensure requirements.

• Licenses valid for three years, renewable triennially for a fee; director authorized to adopt rules, establish fees, appoint an advisory committee, and adopt a code of ethics and continuing education requirements; effective January 1, 2026.