Motorcycle License in Hawaii

Wouldn't you like to experience all of Hawaii's natural wonders while enjoying the freedom that comes with riding a motorcycle? If so, consider applying for a Hawaii Class 2 motorcycle license.

Each Hawaiian island/county sets its own licensing processes. Therefore, this guide will outline general requirements for getting your Hawaii motorcycle credentials. If you'd like information specific to your Hawaiian county, please contact your local driver licensing office.

New to Hawaii

If you just moved to the state of Hawaii but already have a motorcycle license/endorsement from another state, you can transfer your credentials.

In general, to transfer your out-of-state motorcycle license/endorsement to Hawaiian credentials, visit your local HI driver licensing office and do the following:

  • Submit a State of Hawaii Driver's License Application.
  • Present proof of your:
  • Pass written knowledge exams for your:
    • Standard (Class 3) driver's license.
    • Motorcycle (Class 2) license.
  • Pass the on-bike road exam IF your out-of-state license is expired.
  • Take a vision test.

For more information on transferring an out-of-state motorcycle license in your specific Hawaiian county, contact your local driver licensing office.

HI Motorcycle License Eligibility Requirements

In order to get your HI motorcycle license, you'll need to meet the following eligibility requirements set by the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HIDOT):

  • Earn a motorcycle instruction permit.
  • Complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) rider education course, approved by the Hawaii DOT.
    • This is mandatory for applicants between 16 and 18 years old.
    • For other riders, taking a MSF course will waive the motorcycle road skills exam.
  • Pass a road skills exam if you did not complete a motorcycle education course provided by MSF.
  • Pay the applicable motorcycle licensing fee.

For more information on HI motorcycle license eligibility in your county, contact your local driver licensing office.

HI Motorcycle Instruction Permits

In the state of Hawaii, all motorcycle license applicants must first hold an instruction permit. To get your HI motorcycle instruction permit, visit your local driver licensing office and:

When you get your instruction permit, you'll be able to practice driving a motorcycle on Hawaii public roads and highways. If your motorcycle permit expires, you'll have to wait 3 months before applying for another.

Additionally, if you're between 16 and 18 years old, you'll need to:

  • oHold your motorcycle instruction permit for at least 180 days before applying for your HI motorcycle license.
  • oEnroll in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course.

For more information about Hawaii motorcycle instruction permits in your county, contact your local driver licensing office.

*NOTE: Everything you need to study to pass the written knowledge exams can be found in the HI Department of Transportation's driver handbook and motorcycle manual. Plus, you can get a head start by taking a few online practice tests for extra preparation!

Permit Restrictions

Though you're probably eager to get out on the road and ride, you should keep the following restrictions in mind. While you practice riding your motorcycle with an instruction permit, you are prohibited from:

  • Transporting passengers.
  • Driving during hours when it's dark and/or the lighting isn't ideal.

Getting Your Hawaii Motorcycle License

In order to get your HI motorcycle license, you'll need to present the following at your county's local driver licensing office:

Motorcycle Education in HI

Motorcycle education is an excellent (and in some cases, mandatory) resource to have when applying for your Hawaii motorcycle license. In Hawaii, completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic RiderCourse allows you to waive the motorcycle road skills test. Additionally, the course is mandatory for riders between 16 and 18 years old.

In the course you'll learn about things like:

  • Sharing the road and communicating with other drivers.
  • Making smooth turns.
  • Scoping out the best and safest riding paths.
  • Procedure in emergency situations.

Generally MSF education courses, which are approved by the HI Department of Transportation, are provided by community colleges and universities in each Hawaiian county. You can use the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's course search tool to find the motorcycle education provider closest to you.

Hawaii Motorcycle License Fees

The fees associated with getting your motorcycle license in the state of Hawaii vary depending on which county you're applying in. The fees per written knowledge exam in each HI county are as follows:

To find out the cost of the rest of the motorcycle licensing items below, contact your county's local licensing agency:

  • Road exam.
  • License and permit fees.
  • Motorcycle Safety Foundation course tuition.
DMV.ORG BBB Business Review