Top1) Choose Your License

Hawaii offers licenses for drivers with these vehicles:

• Class 1: Motor scooters with five horsepower or less.

• Class 2: Motorcycles over five horsepower, and motor scooters.

• Class 3: Any single vehicle weighing 15,000 pounds or less, and vehicles designed to transport 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver.

• Class 4: Any single vehicle weighing between 15,001 - 26,000 pounds (commercial drivers).

Most drivers need the Class 3 license.

If you're younger than 18 years old, you must complete a driver's ed and driver's training course, and get a permit before applying for your license.

Top2) Take a Driver's Education Course

Younger than 18―Those in this category must complete an approved driver's ed course, even if you have a valid out-of-state driver's license.

18 and Older―While those in this group aren't required to take a driver's ed course, doing so is a smart idea. These classes offer valuable information could make you a safer driver.

Top3) Prepare for the Test

The best way to get ready for the written test you'll need to pass to obtain your license is by thoroughly studying the Hawaii Driver's Manual. It's a good idea to take a few practice tests, too.

Top4) Locate a Driver's License Office

You'll take your written test at a driver's license office; depending on where you live, appointments may be available.

Top5) Make Test-Day Preparations

On the day of the test be ready to:

• Present proof of name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

• Pass a vision exam.

• Pass a road sign identification exam.

• Pass a written exam.

• Have your parent or legal guardian present, if you're under 18.

• Complete the permit application.

Top6) Take the Written Test

Remember, before taking the written test, you should study the state's driver manual, take a few practice tests, and have your paperwork ready.

Top7) Get a Car

You must provide a car that's safe to operate and has a current safety inspection certificate in order to take the road exam. If you need to find such a car and are considering buying a used vehicle, it's smart to obtain a vehicle history report prior to purchasing the vehicle.

Top8) Get Car Insurance

Liability insurance is required to drive a vehicle. If you're looking for an insurance carrier, check out our Insurance Center for the best rates.

Top9) Take the Driving Test

Unless you're older than 18 years old and possess a valid, out-of-state license, you'll need to pass a road test to gain your license. Most office locations across the islands administer the driving exam. Appointments are available, depending on where you live.

If You Pass

After you've successfully completed the test, you'll be issued a provisional license (if you're under 18) or a full license.

If You Fail

If you don't pass the test, you may have to wait a week before retaking the test. Contact your driver's license office for details.

Top Fees

The fees to apply for an instruction permit, take the written and road tests, and receive a driver's license vary from county to county, so check with your local licensing office to find out how much you can expect to pay for each process.

Top Non-Citizens

Visitors from other countries may drive in Hawaii for up to one year as long as they have a valid license from their home country, and an International Driver Permit (IDP). The permit, which basically translates the license to make it understandable to U.S. officials, is issued in the visitor's home country.

Non-citizens should carry their license, passport, and IDP with them whenever driving.

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!