What you need to get a Hawaii driver's license

Hawaii issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation, Highways Division. You'll need to visit a Highways Division office in person — there's no online licensing process. Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular ID card), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days).

If you're a new resident, you have 30 days from moving to Hawaii to get a Hawaii license. If you hold a valid license from another state, you can exchange it without retaking the written or driving test, though you'll still need to visit an office and pay the fee. First-time applicants must pass both a written knowledge test and a practical driving test.

Hawaii recognizes REAL ID-compliant licenses. If you want a REAL ID license (required for federal building entry and domestic flights after May 7, 2025), bring the same documents plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. The REAL ID version costs the same as a standard license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Highways Division office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Hawaii residency to get your first license.
  • New residents have 30 days from moving to Hawaii to obtain a Hawaii license, or you can exchange an out-of-state license without retesting.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test and a driving test; out-of-state license holders can skip both if their license is valid.
  • REAL ID-compliant licenses cost the same as standard licenses and require an original or certified birth certificate in addition to other documents.
  • Hawaii licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew by mail or online if you meet certain conditions.

Where to go and what the process costs

The Highways Division operates offices on all major islands: Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii (Hilo and Kona), Maui (Wailuku), and Kauai (Lihue). You can find the current address and hours on the Hawaii Department of Transportation website. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Some offices take appointments through their online system, which can reduce your wait.

A standard driver's license costs $60 and is valid for six years. A REAL ID license also costs $60. If you're renewing early (within six months of expiration), the fee is reduced. Replacement licenses for lost or damaged cards cost $20. Payment methods vary by office, so call ahead if you need to know whether they accept card payments or cash only.

Renewing your Hawaii license by mail or online

If your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions, you can renew by mail or online without visiting an office. Online renewal is available through the Highways Division website and takes about 10 business days. You'll need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start.

Mail renewal requires you to send in your current license, a completed process form (available on the Highways Division website), and the renewal fee. Mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from receipt. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has expired for more than one year, if you have medical restrictions, if you're changing your name, or if you need to update your address. In those cases, you must visit an office in person.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

Hawaii suspends licenses for unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, or accumulating too many traffic violations. A revocation is permanent removal of driving privileges and typically results from serious violations like driving under the influence or reckless endangerment.

If your license is suspended, you can request a hearing through the Highways Division to contest the suspension or ask for a hardship license (which allows limited driving for work or medical reasons). Contact the Highways Division directly to learn the current status of your license and what documents you'll need for a hearing. Reinstating a suspended license usually requires paying any outstanding fines and fees.

Changing your name or address on your Hawaii license

To change your name on your license, you must visit a Highways Division office in person and bring proof of the name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will issue a new license with your updated name. There is no fee for a name change if your license is not expired.

You can change your address online, by mail, or in person. Online address changes are the fastest option and take effect when ready. To change your address online, log into the Highways Division portal with your license number and Social Security number. By mail, send a completed form with proof of your new address. In person, bring a current utility bill or lease showing your new address.

Getting a commercial driver's license in Hawaii

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required if you operate a vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds or carry hazardous materials. Hawaii issues CDLs through the same Highways Division offices. You must hold a valid Hawaii driver's license first, pass a medical examination, and pass written and practical tests specific to the class of vehicle you'll drive.

CDL applicants must also obtain a commercial learner's permit before scheduling a driving test. The permit costs $20 and is valid for six months. You can take the written test for the permit at any Highways Division office. The practical test must be scheduled separately and is conducted by an approved third-party examiner. Fees and processing times vary depending on the CDL class and endorsements you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Hawaii license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Hawaii law requires a Social Security number or proof that you've applied for one. If you don't have a number, you must explore through the Social Security Administration first. Bring documentation of your process to the Highways Division office.

What happens if I move out of Hawaii but still have a valid Hawaii license?

Your Hawaii license remains valid until it expires. However, if you become a resident of another state, you should obtain a license from that state within the timeframe required by that state's law. Holding licenses from multiple states is not recommended and may create legal complications.

How do I schedule a driving test if I'm a first-time applicant?

After you pass the written test at a Highways Division office, you can schedule your practical driving test through the same office or online. Tests are conducted by approved examiners. Wait times for test appointments vary by island and season, so schedule as soon as you pass the written portion.

Can I renew my Hawaii license if I'm living outside Hawaii?

Yes, if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions, you can renew by mail. Send your current license, the completed renewal form, and the fee to the Highways Division address on the form. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide.

What's the difference between a standard license and a REAL ID license in Hawaii?

Both cost the same and are valid for six years. A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. A standard license does not meet those federal requirements but is valid for driving and state identification.