Get a Drivers License in Hawaii

For those 18 and older, apply for a Classified Driver License (that bears no restrictions) with the steps below. Keep in mind you must also pass a written exam on Hawaii traffic laws and road signs and vision test before taking the road test.

If you are younger than 18, you still must fulfill the graduated driver license driving requirements of Phase One and Phase Two.

GDL Phase One

Before you can apply for a provisional license, minors between the ages of 15 ½ and 17 years old must:

• Possess a valid Hawaii instructional permit for a period of 180 days

• Turn 16 before you take your road test

• Maintain a valid instructional permit (also called a learner license) without any pending violations that could result in suspension or revocation

After completing this period, you can move on to Phase Two after passing a road test.

A) Make an Appointment at the HI DOT

Your last hurdle before getting your Hawaii drivers license is to pass a road examination test at a nearby HI DOT drivers license office. Look online for a nearby branch, and then ask about making a driving test appointment. Not all locations offer this option.

B) Take the Road Test

When heading to the HI testing station you must be accompanied by a licensed driver. Be sure you bring the following to your appointment:

• Proof of name, date of birth and Social Security number

• Proper fees (these vary by county; contact the particular branch for more info)

• A vehicle in safe operating condition along with a safety inspection certificate and no-fault insurance card

During the road test, you won’t be asked to violate any laws and the examiner will not try to trick you. Also, no passengers will be allowed to accompany you.

GDL Phase Two Applicants

After completing Phase One and turning 16, you can graduate to Phase Two to earn a provisional license. Again, you must provide completion certificates for your drivers education classroom course and behind-the-wheel driver training. Also have your instructional permit (held at least six months) on you before taking the road test. Once you pass the driving test, you’ll begin Phase Two of the GDL process.

Get Your Hawaii Driver's License

Provisional Drivers License

With your provisional Class C license, you must follow these restrictions:

• You can only transport one passenger younger than 18 if they are not a household member

• You can drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. only when accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian unless driving to and from employment or driving to and from the driver’s school-authorized activity; during these hours, you may not transport more than one person younger than 18 unless accompanied by your parent or guardian

• All passengers must use safety belts or child restraints

To graduate to a full license, you must have held your provisional license for six months and be at least 17 years old.

Full Drivers License

After passing the road test, you’ll earn a full driver’s license. Be mindful of the expiration date so that you renew on time as there is no grace period after it expires. If you allow your license to be void, you can still renew within a year but you will have to follow the procedure for an original license all over again.

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