Moving to Hawaii: What drivers should know about each island's licensing laws

Hawaii is a U.S. state like no other. This island archipelago lies far away from the continental U.S. in the Pacific Ocean. Yet Hawaii is just like other U.S. states in that its driving laws are uniformly applied. The individual islands do not have individualized licensing. However, you must get your license on the island on which you reside. Hawaii County, Honolulu County, Kauai County, Kalawao County, and Maui County each offer their own state DMV licensing facilities.

Transferring Licenses

Even if you are an adult who is fully licensed in another state, you should plan on studying the driver's manual and taking some DMV practice tests. Hawaii does allow you to transfer your license, but they expect you to take a basic written test first.

New Drivers

To get an instruction permit, you should study the manual and take many DMV practice tests. You must be 15 and 6 months of age to take the test, which requires an 80 percent efficiency on both a rules of the road multiple-choice exam and a road sign test. At 16, you can get a provisional license after passing a driving test. You must prove you have driven the required number of hours in a period of 180 days or more. Plus, you must have completed a driving course. A full license is granted at 17 after holding a provisional license for six months or more. For the ID requirements, visit here.

Special Considerations

On a provisional license, there is a curfew. You may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are with your licensed parent. In addition, you may not have more than one under-18 passenger in the car. Remember to renew or update your instruction license or provisional license before it expires. Expired instruction or provisional licenses can cause problems for those wanting to upgrade to the next level. Research Links. Hawaii Graduated Licensing: https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/files/2013/01/Hawaii-Graduated-Licensing-Brochure.pdf Hawaii State Transfer: https://www1.honolulu.gov/csd/vehicle/faqs_dl.htm#oos_transfer. Motorcycle Licensing: /node/3906.