How to Get Your Driver's License in Hawaii
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Hawaii. Hawaii uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.5.
GDL Stages in Hawaii
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Provisional License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger under 18 who is not immediate family
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 17 and a half with no major violations
Restricted License Rules
- Provisional drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work or an emergency.
- Only 1 passenger under 18 who is not a family member is allowed.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift when the driver turns 17 and a half.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older skip the provisional licensing program and may apply for a full license after passing the required tests.
Hawaii-Specific Information
Hawaii's licensing is administered at the county level rather than by a single state agency, so permit and road test procedures vary slightly between Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17.5 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Hawaii.
Hawaii uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Provisional License, Full Unrestricted License.
- Provisional drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work or an emergency.
- Only 1 passenger under 18 who is not a family member is allowed.
Adults age 18 and older in Hawaii can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older skip the provisional licensing program and may apply for a full license after passing the required tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Hawaii learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Hawaii.
Hawaii drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Hawaii County Finance Department (varies by county) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Hawaii County Finance Department (varies by county) website for the most current information.