From International Roads to Island Drives: Exchanging Your Foreign License in Hawaii

Aloha and welcome to Hawaii! As you settle into island life, one of the most important steps is obtaining a Hawaii driver's license. If you intend to become a resident, you are required to transfer your license. While an International Driving Permit is helpful, it is not a substitute for a state-issued license.

The process can seem confusing, as Hawaii has special agreements with certain countries. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step path for all new residents looking to exchange a foreign driver's license, making your transition to a licensed Hawaii driver as smooth as possible.

The Reciprocity Advantage: Can You Skip the Tests?

The most important first step is to determine if your home country has a reciprocity agreement with the State of Hawaii. This is a major advantage, as it means you can get a Hawaii license without taking the written knowledge test or the road skills test.

Countries with Hawaii License Reciprocity

As of 2025, Hawaii has established reciprocity agreements with the following countries:

• Canada
• France
• Germany
• Japan
• Republic of Korea (South Korea)
• Taiwan (Republic of China)

If you hold a valid, unexpired, non-commercial driver's license from one of these nations, you are exempt from the testing requirements. However, you must still pass a vision screening and provide all the necessary documentation.

If your license is from any country not on this list, you must apply for a brand new license. This process requires you to pass the vision screening, the written knowledge exam, and the road skills test.

Path 1: For Drivers from Reciprocal Countries (Japan, Canada, etc.)

If you hold a license from a country listed above, your process is relatively straightforward, similar to an out-of-state transfer.

Step-by-Step Guide for Reciprocal Exchange

1. Gather Your Documents (Proof of Legal Presence): Hawaii has strict "Proof of Legal Presence" requirements. All documents must be original or certified copies. The name on all documents must match exactly.

• Valid Foreign Passport: Your unexpired passport is your primary form of identification.
• U.S. Immigration Documents: Your valid visa and your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record printout.
• Social Security Card: If you have one. If you are not eligible, you must get a letter from the Social Security Administration office confirming your ineligibility.
• Two Proofs of Hawaii Residency: You need two documents showing your name and current physical address in Hawaii (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). Examples include a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement dated within the last two months.

2. Get a Certified Translation: If your foreign license is not in English, you must obtain an abstract or translation from a state-approved translation service. Each county (e.g., City and County of Honolulu, County of Maui) maintains a list of acceptable translators. You are responsible for this cost.
3. Make an Appointment: All driver licensing services require an appointment. Use the AlohaQ online reservation system for your county to schedule your visit.
4. Visit the Driver Licensing Center: At your appointment, you will:

• Present all your original documents and the certified translation.
• Complete the license application form.
• Pass the vision screening.
• Pay the required fees.
• Have your photo taken.
• Surrender your foreign driver's license. The state will keep your license from your home country.

5. Receive Your License: You will be issued a temporary paper license, and your permanent plastic card will be mailed to you.

Path 2: For All Other Foreign License Holders

If your license is not from a reciprocal country, you must follow the full process for a new driver.

Step-by-Step Guide for New License Applicants

1. Gather Documents and Get Translations: The documentation requirements are the same as in Path 1. You need your passport, immigration papers, SSN or denial letter, two proofs of residency, and your foreign license with a certified translation if it's not in English.
2. Apply for an Instruction Permit: Make an appointment at a driver licensing center to apply for a learner's permit. At this appointment, you will:

• Submit all your documents for review.
• Pass the Vision Test.
• Pass the Written Knowledge Test. This is a multiple-choice test on Hawaii traffic laws and road signs, based on the official Hawaii Driver's Manual.

3. Receive Your Instruction Permit: Once you pass the tests and pay the fee, you will get your instruction permit.
4. Schedule and Pass the Road Test:

• You must hold your permit for a required period before you can take the road test. However, presenting your valid foreign license may waive this waiting period. Check with your local licensing center.
• Schedule your road test appointment via the AlohaQ system.
• You must bring a vehicle that meets all of Hawaii's safety requirements (including a valid safety check sticker) and be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older.

5. Get Your Full License: After you successfully pass your road test, you will surrender your foreign license and instruction permit, pay the final licensing fee, and be issued your new Hawaii driver's license.

Navigating this process takes careful preparation, especially regarding the strict documentation rules. By determining your path and gathering your paperwork meticulously, you can make the experience a success.