Where to get a Hawaii driver's license and what you'll need

You get a Hawaii driver's license from the Hawaii Department of Transportation, Driver's License Division. There are five offices across the islands: Honolulu (main office on Oahu), Hilo and Kona on the Big Island, Kahului on Maui, and Lihue on Kauai. You cannot mail in your process — you must appear in person at one of these locations.

Before you go, gather these documents: a valid passport, birth certificate, or other proof of identity and citizenship; proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return); and proof of your current Hawaii address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days). If you are renewing and your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test on Hawaii traffic laws. The written test has 30 questions; you need 24 correct to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back later. There is no fee to retake the test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver's License Division office in person; there is no online or mail option for getting or renewing a license.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Hawaii address — all documents must be originals or certified copies.
  • You will take a vision test and a written test on Hawaii traffic laws at your appointment; the written test has 30 questions and you need 24 correct.
  • A new license costs $35 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license; renewals cost the same amount.
  • Processing takes about 10 business days; you can check your status online using your driver's license number or Social Security number.

First-time licenses versus renewals

If you are getting your first Hawaii license, you must pass both the vision test and the written knowledge test. You will also need to complete a behind-the-wheel driving test with an examiner, unless you hold a valid license from another state or country. If you already have an out-of-state license, you can skip the driving test but still must pass the written and vision tests.

If you are renewing a license you already hold, the process is simpler. You do not retake the written or driving tests. You still take the vision test, and you must bring your current license plus the same proof-of-address and identity documents. Renewals take the same amount of time as new licenses — about 10 business days.

Hawaii licenses are valid for four or eight years. When you renew, you choose which length you want. The four-year license costs $35; the eight-year license costs $60. Both cost the same whether you are getting a new license or renewing.

How to schedule an appointment and what to expect

You can walk in to any Driver's License Division office without an appointment, but wait times vary. The Honolulu office on Oahu is usually the busiest. To avoid a long wait, you can schedule an appointment online through the Hawaii Department of Transportation website or by calling the office directly. Appointment slots fill up, especially in the morning, so book as far ahead as you can.

When you arrive, bring all your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. The staff will verify your documents, you will take the vision test, and if you are taking the written test, you will sit at a computer terminal to answer the 30 questions. If you are doing a driving test, the examiner will take you out in your own vehicle or a state vehicle, depending on the office.

The whole process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes if you pass everything on the first try. If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready or schedule another appointment. If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least one week before retaking it.

Costs and payment methods

A new four-year driver's license costs $35. A new eight-year license costs $60. Renewals cost the same. If you need a duplicate or replacement license (because yours was lost or damaged), that costs $10. The Driver's License Division accepts cash, check, and credit or debit card at all offices.

There are no additional fees for the written test, vision test, or driving test — those are included in the license fee. If you fail a test and retake it, you do not pay again.

Getting your license after you pass

After you pass all required tests, the Driver's License Division will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and works as your legal driver's license during that time. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within 10 business days.

You can check the status of your license online using your driver's license number or Social Security number. If your license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact the Driver's License Division office where you applied. Licenses are mailed to the address you provided on your process, so make sure that address is correct before you leave the office.

Special situations: Changing your name or address

If your name has changed since you got your current license, you must bring proof of the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to retake the written or driving tests, but you will need to pass the vision test and pay the renewal fee. You can do this at any Driver's License Division office.

If you have moved to a new address in Hawaii, you can update your address online through the Hawaii Department of Transportation website without visiting an office. The address change takes effect when ready. If you move out of Hawaii, you will need to get a license from your new state.

What to do if you fail the written or driving test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost. You have up to three attempts per appointment. If you fail all three, you must schedule another appointment and come back. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test overall.

If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least one week before retaking it. You will need to pay the full license fee again when you retake the test. The examiner will give you feedback on what you did wrong so you can practice before your next attempt. Most people pass on their second or third try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Hawaii license online or by mail?

No. All renewals and new licenses require an in-person visit to a Driver's License Division office. You can schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time, but you must appear in person to complete the process.

What if I have a license from another state — do I still have to take the written test?

Yes. Even if you hold a valid out-of-state license, you must pass Hawaii's written knowledge test and vision test to get a Hawaii license. You can skip the driving test if your out-of-state license is valid, but the written and vision tests are required for everyone.

How long does it take to get my permanent license after I pass?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 10 business days. If it does not arrive within 15 business days, contact the office where you applied.

What happens if I move out of Hawaii before my license expires?

Your Hawaii license remains valid until its expiration date, even if you move. However, you should get a license from your new state as soon as you establish residency there. You cannot legally drive using an out-of-state license in your new state once you become a resident.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Scheduling an appointment online or by phone reduces your wait. The Honolulu office is typically the busiest, so an appointment is especially helpful there.