What to Bring to the Hawaii DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Make an appointment online if possible to skip the longest lines
- →Call ahead to confirm which branch is open (some close for lunch)
- →Have your parents gather all residency documents before leaving the house
- →Study the Hawaii Driver's Manual thoroughly before the test
- →Arrive at least 15 minutes early to get your number
- →Double-check that your parent/guardian knows they must come with you
- →Bring your Social Security card or W-2 just in case they ask
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- ✓Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- ✓Valid foreign passport with I-94 and visa
Bring the original document only; photocopies are not accepted for the primary identity proof.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card
- ✓W-2 Form
- ✓Pay stub with full SSN
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Non-SSA-1099 Form
Hawaii requires proof of your SSN. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or pay stub that shows your full number. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating ineligibility.
Proof of Hawaii Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Hawaii Voter Registration Card
- ✓Hawaii vehicle registration
- ✓Hawaii vehicle title
- ✓Utility bill (electric, water, gas) in parent's name
- ✓Bank statement with Hawaii address
- ✓School report card or transcript
You need two different documents to prove you live in Hawaii. Both must show your name and current address. If you are applying for a REAL ID, two proofs are mandatory.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application in person at the DMV
- ✓Parent/guardian must present their own valid ID
- ✓If parents are divorced, the custodial parent usually signs, but check specific custody orders
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency authorization forms
The parent or guardian MUST appear with you at the counter. They cannot just sign the form at home and mail it in; they need to show their ID and sign right there in front of the clerk.
Fees & Payment
$5
The $5 fee covers the learner's permit application. If you fail the written test, there is a small re-test fee (usually $5) to try again. The fee does not cover the eventual driver's license issuance.
Accepted payment:
Forms
Application for Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-180TD)
Available at: Download from the Hawaii DOT website or pick up at the DMV office
Do not sign the form until you are in front of the DMV clerk. If you sign it early, they will make you fill out a new one.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Large backpacks or bags (storage is limited)
- ✗Friends or siblings who aren't applying (they can't wait inside)
- ✗Pets (unless it's a service animal)
- ✗Food or drinks (no eating in the waiting area)
- ✗Your own pen (use the one provided to avoid ink issues)
- ✗Expensive jewelry or electronics you don't need
- ✗Confidence issues (just breathe, it's easy)
At the Office
- →The written test is computer-based; use headphones if provided
- →You get 30 questions and need 24 correct (80%) to pass
- →If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day for a small fee
- →Once you pass, you get an interim paper permit immediately; the real card comes by mail in a few weeks
- →Listen carefully to the clerk's instructions on the 180-day waiting period before your road test
Official Hawaii Department of Transportation, Highway Division info: highways.hawaii.gov
Take the Free Hawaii Practice Quiz →