Once you turn 15 ½, you can apply for a Hawaii learner’s permit (also called an instructional permit). You must obtain a permit before taking any behind-the-wheel or simulator courses.

If you are 18 or older, you aren’t required to obtain a permit. You can go straight to Step 5 on getting your HI driver’s license.

A) Ace a Few DMV Practice Permit Tests

Take multiple online practice permit tests before you head to a nearby Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles office to take your written test. Sample test questions cover topics you’ll find on the actual HI learner’s permit exam.

In addition to taking some practice tests, thoroughly study the Hawaii Driver’s Manual. That way you will be prepared to pass the actual Department of Motor Vehicles permit test with ease.

B) Gather Required Documents and Hawaii Permit Fees

When applying for an instructional permit, teens must be at least 15 ½ but younger than 18 years old and able to provide:

• Written consent from their parent or legal guardian (unless married or emancipated)

• Acceptable identification

• Proper fees

C) Take the Hawaii Instructional Permit Exam

In addition to taking the written rules of the road exam, you must take pass a vision screening test. Once you pass both, the state will issue you an instructional permit valid for one year from the issue date.

You can renew your permit for another one-year period no sooner than 30 days before and no later than 90 days after the expiration date. Failure to renew within 30 days of the day it expires will mean waiting 180 days before you are eligible to take the road test.

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