ESA Letter Hawaii: How to Get It and ESA Laws in Hawaii

By: Athena Angela Gaffud, DVM Updated: January 17, 2025

emotional support animal in hawaii. an esa dog camping with its owners.

Understanding the laws and benefits is essential for Hawaii residents seeking the invaluable support of an emotional support animal (ESA). An ESA letter is a critical document issued by a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP) that confirms the need for an ESA. Obtaining an ESA letter in Hawaii ensures residents access to key protections, including housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act, even in pet-restricted properties. Familiarity with Hawaii's emotional support animal laws empowers individuals to advocate for their rights while fostering a supportive and legally compliant environment for their emotional support animal.

What is the Importance of ESA Letters for Hawaii Residents?

The importance of ESA Letters for Hawaii residents lies in their ability to provide legal protections and ensure that individuals with emotional or psychological conditions access the necessary support from their emotional support animals. An emotional support animal Hawaii letter, issued by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP), or other authorized health care provider, confirms the necessity of the animal as part of a treatment plan. This letter allows residents to have their ESA in housing situations that otherwise have a no-pets policy, by the Fair Housing Act. Additionally, it provides protections for air travel and other public accommodations. The ESA letter serves as the official documentation that helps ensure individuals with mental health conditions benefit from the companionship and therapeutic support of their animals, improving their overall quality of life. 

ESA letters are not required to be issued by a licensed professional specifically within Hawaii to be valid. If the letter is written by an lLMHP authorized to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, it is valid under Hawaii emotional support animal laws and federal regulations. The key factor is that the ESA letter must meet the legal requirements, such as being signed and dated by a qualified professional. It must specify the individual's need for an emotional support animal. Whether the LMHP is located in Hawaii or another state does not invalidate the letter, as long as it complies with legal standards. However, it's always a good idea to ensure the ESA letter is up-to-date and follows the regulations specific to Hawaii emotional support animal laws to avoid any complications with housing or travel.

Why Get an Emotional Support Animal in Hawaii?

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a companion animal that provides comfort, support, and relief to individuals struggling with emotional or psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or stress. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training but are recognized for their profound therapeutic value. For residents of  Hawaii, these animals are more than pets—they are vital components of emotional and mental health treatment plans.

Under federal laws like the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with ESAs are granted legal protections, allowing them to live with their support animal in housing that otherwise restricts pets. This is especially beneficial in Hawaii, where pet-friendly housing is limited. It ensures that individuals do not face discrimination based on their need for an Emotional Support Animal.

Beyond legal protections, ESAs offer significant personal and emotional benefits. They help reduce feelings of loneliness, improve mood, and provide consistent companionship. For individuals in Hawaii, the calming presence of an ESA is particularly valuable in managing mental health challenges, fostering a sense of stability, and enhancing overall well-being. By incorporating an ESA into their treatment, Hawaii residents experience a holistic approach to mental health care, combining professional therapy with the comforting presence of a loyal companion.

Is ESA Registration in Hawaii Required?

No, ESA registration in Hawaii is not required. The common misconception is that individuals must register or certify their pet to make it an emotional support animal. The only document needed to recognize a pet as an ESA is an emotional support animal letter in Hawaii issued by a licensed professional.

This letter serves as official proof that the individual has a mental or emotional condition that benefits from the companionship of an ESA. Unlike service animals requiring specific training and certifications, emotional support animals do not need formal registration or training to provide therapeutic support. Websites offering ESA "certifications" or "registrations" are often misleading and unnecessary. Instead, obtaining a valid emotional support animal letter in Hawaii ensures compliance with federal laws like the Fair Housing Act, granting individuals the legal right to live with their ESA in housing that otherwise restricts pets. This letter is the key document that establishes the relationship between the individual and their emotional support animal, eliminating the need for any additional registration.

How do ESA Letters in Hawaii differ from other States?

While Hawaii follows federal laws like the Fair Housing Act (FHA) for emotional support animals, its unique housing market and biosecurity regulations create specific differences. Unlike ESA Letters in every State, those in Hawaii must often address the island’s strict pet policies and housing challenges. Proper documentation is essential for residents to secure housing accommodations, especially in properties with "no pets" rules.

Additionally, Hawaii’s biosecurity regulations require compliance with animal quarantine laws to protect its ecosystem, which is not a common requirement in many other states. This adds an extra step for residents or visitors bringing an emotional support animal to Hawaii. Understanding these distinctions and emotional support animal Hawaii registration requirements ensures that individuals with ESAs fully benefit from the legal protections and emotional support their animals provide.

What are the Specific Emotional Support Animal Laws in Hawaii?

The Specific Emotional Support Animal Laws in Hawaii are listed below.

  1. Hawaii ESA Housing Laws: Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords in Hawaii must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs, even in housing with strict "no pets" policies. While the ESA is not considered a pet, proper documentation, such as an ESA letter, is essential to qualify for this protection under Hawaii emotional support animal laws.
  2. Hawaii ESA Employment Laws: Unlike service animals, ESAs are not covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for workplace accommodations. Therefore, employers in Hawaii are not legally required to allow ESAs in the workplace. However, some employers offer accommodations voluntarily.
  3. Hawaii ESA Laws for Public Places: Under the ADA, which applies in Hawaii, ESAs are not granted access to public places like restaurants, stores, or parks. These spaces are only accessible to service animals trained to perform specific tasks.
  4. Hawaii ESA Travel Laws: Although airlines once accommodated ESAs under the Air Carrier Access Act, recent changes now classify them as pets for air travel. Hawaii’s strict quarantine laws further require ESAs to meet health and vaccination requirements before entry into the state, as mandated by emotional support animal Hawaii law.

Hawaii penalizes individuals falsely claiming to have an assistance animal. Misrepresentation undermines legitimate needs and violates Hawaii ESA laws, with potential fines and legal repercussions.

Is Getting an ESA Letter Online Legal in Hawaii?

Yes, getting an ESA letter online is legal in Hawaii, as long as the letter is issued by a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP) authorized to diagnose and treat emotional or psychological conditions. According to Hawaii's emotional support animal laws, the letter must be valid, accurate, and reflect the individual's specific need for an emotional support animal. However, it's crucial to ensure that the online service is legitimate and provides a letter that complies with emotional support animal Hawaii law, which requires specific information such as the professional's credentials, the diagnosis, and the animal's role in providing emotional support. Online ESA letters from reputable sources offer the same legal protections as those obtained through in-person consultations with LMHPs, provided all criteria are met.

Can a Landlord Reject an ESA in Hawaii?

No, a landlord in Hawaii cannot legally reject an emotional support animal (ESA) as long as the tenant provides the proper documentation. Under Hawaii ESA laws, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs, even if the property has a "no pets" policy, following the Fair Housing Act (FHA). However, landlords have the option to refuse an ESA if the animal directly threatens the safety or health of others, causes significant property damage, or if the tenant does not provide valid documentation from a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP) confirming the need for the animal.

The typical process for tenants requesting an ESA begins with providing a legitimate ESA letter to the landlord. This letter must verify the tenant’s need for an emotional support animal due to a recognized mental health condition. Once the letter is submitted, landlords must respond by evaluating the request and making necessary accommodations, unless specific exceptions exist. Tenants have the right to live with their ESA under Hawaii ESA laws, and landlords have an obligation to assess each request on a case-by-case basis. If a landlord rejects an ESA without valid justification, the tenant has the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or seek legal counsel to ensure their rights are upheld.

Can you have Multiple Emotional Support Animals in Hawaii?

Yes, it is possible to have multiple emotional support animals (ESAs) in Hawaii, as long as the individual demonstrates the necessity for each animal based on their mental health needs. Under Hawaii's emotional support animal laws, the key requirement is that each ESA must be appropriately documented with a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). However, the individual must show that having multiple animals is necessary for their well-being, and the animals must not cause undue burden or harm to others. For instance, if the animals create significant property damage or disturbances, a landlord has grounds to request a reduction in ESAs. It’s essential for residents of Hawaii to work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure that their request for multiple animals is valid and that each animal’s role in their emotional support is justified.

How to Get an ESA Letter in Hawaii?

Follow the list below to get an ESA Letter in Hawaii. These steps are indicative of how the process could work.

  • Consult with a Licensed Professional: To begin the process, individuals must schedule an appointment with a licensed mental health professional (LMHP), or other health care provider qualified to assess emotional and psychological conditions. This professional will determine whether an emotional support animal suits their needs.
  • Obtain a Valid ESA Letter: If the LMHP determines that an individual benefits from an emotional support animal, they issue an ESA letter. This letter must be on official letterhead and include specific details, such as the professional's license information, the diagnosis, and the need for an ESA to help with mental health.
  • Ensure the ESA Letter Meets Hawaii Laws: Ensure the ESA letter complies with Hawaii emotional support animal regulations. These regulations require the letter to be valid, dated, and signed by a licensed professional.
  • Submit the ESA Letter to the Landlord or Housing Provider: For housing accommodations, present the ESA letter to the landlord or housing provider to request reasonable accommodations. Under federal and state laws, they must accept the ESA request, barring any exceptional circumstances.
  • Stay Updated and Revisit the Process If Necessary. ESA letters need to be renewed periodically. Ensure that the letter is updated to avoid housing or travel accommodations issues.

If an individual prefers a convenient online process, CertaPet offers a platform where residents of Hawaii connect with licensed professionals for a legitimate emotional support dog Hawaii letter. CertaPet streamlines the process, allowing individuals to receive their ESA letter after completing an online assessment. It also makes gaining the legal protections and benefits of having an emotional support animal more straightforward.

What are the Advantages of Getting an ESA Letter in Hawaii through CertaPet?

The advantages of getting an ESA Letter in Hawaii through CertaPet are listed below.

  • Convenient and Quick Process: CertaPet allows individuals to quickly complete an online assessment, eliminating the need for in-person visits. This makes the process fast and convenient for those living in Hawaii, especially if access to local professionals is limited.
  • Legally Compliant Letters: CertaPet ensures that all ESA letters comply with Hawaii emotional support animal laws. The letters are valid for housing, travel, and other legal purposes and provide individuals with the necessary documentation to receive protection under federal and state law.
  • Access to Licensed Professionals: CertaPet connects users with licensed mental health professionals who assess the need for an ESA and provide a legitimate ESA letter. This ensures that the process is professional and credible, following the legal requirements of Hawaii and beyond.
  • Support for Housing Accommodations: With an ESA letter from CertaPet, individuals confidently request housing accommodations under service animal laws in Hawaii. Landlords are legally required to allow ESAs, and CertaPet helps tenants understand their rights, answering the question, "Can a landlord deny an emotional support animal in Hawaii?"
  • Peace of Mind for Travel and Other Situations: CertaPet’s ESA letters are accepted for air travel, helping individuals navigate travel restrictions for emotional support animals. After completing the necessary legal steps, users travel without worrying about being denied entry or accommodations for their ESA.
  • Affordable and Accessible: CertaPet offers a cost-effective solution for obtaining an ESA letter online. Its accessible platform supports individuals across Hawaii in their journey to secure an emotional support animal.

Using CertaPet, Hawaii residents quickly obtain a legitimate ESA letter and enjoy the legal benefits and protections of having an emotional support animal.

CertaPet's Quick and Easy Process for ESA Letters

  1. Free online assessment. A quick online screening test determines whether an ESA is a good fit for the applicant. The test is free of charge and takes only a few minutes. 
  2. Consult with a therapist. CertaPet automatically searches for a mental health professional licensed in Hawaii with whom a patient will conduct their teleconsultations from the comfort of your own home. 
  3. Get your ESA Letter. The CertaPet ESA letter provided by the LMHP is accessible online or is mailed directly to your address. 

CertaPet Free Screening Test

Take our free screening test and find out in as little as 5 minutes. 

Do ESA Letters in Hawaii need to be Renewed Annually?

Yes, ESA letters in Hawaii need to be renewed annually to ensure they remain valid. An ESA letter is a document from a licensed professional stating that an individual requires an emotional support animal (ESA) for their mental health condition. The letter must reflect current needs since emotional and psychological conditions change. While Hawaii service dog laws focus primarily on service animals, the same principles of documentation and periodic evaluation also apply to ESAs. Renewal is necessary to ensure that the ESA letter meets legal standards and provides the proper protections for housing and travel. Renewal usually involves re-assessment by an LMHP to confirm the ongoing need for an emotional support animal. To maintain compliance, individuals must consult with a licensed professional before the letter expires.

How to Avoid Online Scams in ESA Letters in Hawaii?

To avoid online scams in ESA Letters in Hawaii, follow the list below.

  • Verify the Provider’s Credentials. Only work with licensed mental health professionals (LMHPs) qualified to issue ESA letters. Check that the provider is licensed in the state and has the qualifications to assess the need for an emotional support animal.
  • Avoid Overly Simplistic or Instant Solutions. Be cautious of websites that promise quick or instant ESA letters without objectively assessing the individual’s mental health. A legitimate provider will require a detailed consultation or evaluation before issuing a letter.
  • Ensure Proper Documentation. A legitimate ESA letter must be on official letterhead, signed by a licensed professional, and include specific information, such as the diagnosis and the need for an ESA. Scams often lack these details or provide generic letters.
  • Research the Company or Service. Look for reviews or feedback from past clients to ensure the service is reputable. Check for transparency regarding pricing and the process to ensure no hidden fees or misleading promises.
  • Check for Legal Compliance. Ensure the ESA letter complies with federal and Hawaii emotional support animal laws. If a provider does not follow legal requirements, housing providers or airlines do not accept their letter.
  • Trust Established Services. Rely on well-known, trustworthy services like CertaPet, which connects individuals with licensed professionals for legitimate ESA letters. CertaPet follows the proper procedures and ensures compliance with Hawaii service dog laws, providing a safe and reliable route to obtaining a valid ESA letter.

If an individual is looking for additional guidance on how to get a service dog in Hawaii, it’s essential to understand the distinction between emotional support animals and service dogs. A legitimate provider also explains both processes, ensuring the individual is fully informed and protected.

author avatar
Athena Angela Gaffud, DVM Veterinarian
Dr. Athena Angela Gaffud is a licensed veterinarian, researcher, fact checker, and freelance medical writer from Isabela, Philippines.

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