The Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversees driver licensing, vehicle registration, titling and safety inspections across the state. This overview covers the major services provided by the Hawaii DMV.
Forms
The Hawaii DMV provides forms for various motor vehicle transactions including:
- Title transfers
- Registration renewals
- License and ID applications
- Address changes
- Custom plate applications
- Record change filings
Many standard Hawaii DMV forms can be downloaded online for printing and completion. Some specialized forms need to be picked up in person at a local DMV office.
Registration Renewal Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles
Drivers in Hawaii have several options to renew their vehicle registration:
- Online
- By mail
- In person at DMV offices
- At authorized third-party agents
To renew online, you’ll need your license plate or VIN number, mileage, safety check, insurance, and payment info. Mailed renewals accept checks or money orders.
Appointment Scheduling
The Hawaii DMV now offers scheduled appointments for select high-demand services including:
- License and ID issuance and renewals
- Driving tests and permits
- Vehicle registrations
- VIN inspections
- Bill of sales processing
Appointments allow customers to avoid long waits by picking a convenient date and time slot. Same day appointments can sometimes be booked based on availability.
Driver Exam Stations
Hawaii has over 10 DMV exam station locations administering:
- Written knowledge exams
- Hands-on driving tests
- Commercial driver exams
- Motorcycle license testing
Testing locations can be searched by county on the DMV website. Permit and license study guides are also provided.
2024 Drivers Manual
Hawaii updates its official Drivers Manual every 2 years with the newest laws and safety recommendations. The 2024 manual covers:
- Hawaii traffic laws
- Safe driving best practices
- License application process
- Renewal and transfer guidelines
- Test requirements
Be sure to read the latest 2024 manual when applying for your first permit or taking your road test in Hawaii. Printed copies can also be requested at local offices.
License Renewals Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles
Hawaii driver’s licenses are valid for 8 years, expiring on your birthday. Renewal notices are sent by mail about 45 days prior to expiration with the following options:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
You may need to take a new photo and vision test for license renewals. Required documents include ID, social security card, and 2 proofs of residency. Standard renewal fees are $5-6 depending on age.
License Plates
Beyond regular number/letter plates, Hawaii offers 70+ specialty license plate designs:
- Environmental plates
- University plates
- Commemorative issues
- Special organization plates
- Personalized custom word/number plates
Fees and qualifications for Hawaii specialized plates vary by type. Full details provided on the DMV website license plate section.
Drivers License
To earn an initial Hawaii driver’s license, new drivers must complete the following steps:
- Written permit test
- Hold permit 6 months
- Pass road driving test
- Complete all DMV paperwork
Those under 18 have additional restrictions, with full unrestricted licenses issued at 18. Separate exams are required for commercial driving and motorcycle operation.
Contact DMV
Contact information for general inquiries:
- Phone: (808) 586-2262
- Mail: P.O. Box 3621, Honolulu, HI 96811
- Website: http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/dmv
The Hawaii DMV website covers appointment scheduling, forms/manuals, practice tests, license guidelines, registration how-to, office locator, and FAQs.
Hawaii DMV Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to 5 common Hawaii DMV questions:
What forms of payment are accepted for fees?
The Hawaii DMV accepts cash, check, money order, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover Card to cover license, registration, title transfer, and other applicable fees.
How soon can I renew an expired vehicle registration?
Registrations expired less than 365 days can still be renewed online, by mail or in DMV offices without penalties. After 1 year, you must register the vehicle again in person.
Can I use an out-of-state driver’s license in Hawaii?
Yes temporarily, but new Hawaii residents must apply for a local license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state by law.
Is an eye exam required at every license renewal
Yes, Hawaii requires a vision screening once every other renewal cycle, so once every 16 years minimum for all driver’s license holders
How old do you need to be to get a learner’s permit?
– Hawaii residents can get their instructional permit to practice driving at age 15 before taking the road test for their full license around age 16-17 with parental consent.
- More Hawaii DMV frequently asked questions and details on all services are available on their official DMV website.
