State launches new centralized phone number to improve public access, service

Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs launched its new centralized toll-free phone number, 1-844-808-DCCA (3222), designed to make it easier and more efficient for residents, businesses and consumers to access department services.

The new number brings multiple state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs divisions onto a unified call center platform, improving call routing, case tracking and consumer support.

This effort is part of the department’s broader modernization initiative to streamline how the public interacts with state services.

Callers will benefit from:

• One main number to remember for reaching the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs ’s participating divisions and programs.
• Standardized call handling, ensuring a more consistent experience across the department.
• Improved tracking of inquiries supported by a case management system that follows inquiries from start to resolution.
• Fewer missed or lost calls as cases remain active until addressed.

Some specialty phone lines, including those within the Business Registration Division, will continue to operate independently at this time.

Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs phone numbers not yet integrated into the new system will remain active during the transition period, with a sunset date for older lines expected sometime next year.

Callers might experience slightly longer wait times during the initial launch period as the new system stabilizes. A callback option will be available for most callers, and with time the new system is expected to deliver shorter wait times, more efficient routing and fewer repeat calls.

“By bringing our phone lines together and launching a dedicated call center, we’re reducing confusion, improving response times and making sure everyone can get clear answers with just one call,” said Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Deputy Director Dean Hazama in a state announcement about the launch. “This is about creating a better experience for our community, we want contacting us to be simple, quick, and stress-free.”

Callers can help ensure the best possible experience by speaking clearly, having relevant information ready when they call, using the department’s website for quick answers when appropriate and avoiding speakerphone when navigating automated menus or speaking with a virtual agent.

Making calls from an area with stable reception will also help prevent dropped connections.

Callers who know which division they need can simply say the division name or wait for the menu prompt to select the division’s shortcut number.

The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Call Center is now open during regular business hours from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. After-hours callers can leave a voicemail or request a callback.

The call center also observes state holidays.

Launch of the new main phone number represents a significant step in the department’s continued efforts to provide responsive, reliable service to the people of Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website or contact the department at 1-844-808-DCCA (3222) to get additional information.