About the Hawaii DMV written test
The Hawaii knowledge test (often searched as the Hawaii permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official Hawaii driver handbook published by the Hawaii County Driver Licensing.
Hawaii applicants take a rules-of-the-road knowledge test and vision screening based on the Hawaii Driver's Manual before getting an instruction permit at age 15½. The online version has 25 questions and a one-hour limit, and teens must follow graduated licensing rules.
Hawaii permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can get an instruction permit in Hawaii at age 15½.
- Questions on the real test
- 25
- Vision screening
- A vision screening is required with the knowledge test.
- Permit fee
- Instruction permit: $10.00 (Hawaii County); testing fees vary by county.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for adults; 0.02% or more counts as a measurable amount of alcohol for drivers under 21.
- Seat belt law
- All occupants must use safety belts or child restraints.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Hawaii County Driver Licensing before you test.
What Hawaii drivers should know
- Permit holders must be supervised by a licensed driver at least 21.
- Hold the permit 180 days, then the provisional license 6 months before a full license.
- Under 18: no driving 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. without a parent or guardian (provisional drivers have work and school exceptions).
- Provisional drivers may carry only one non-household passenger under 18.
- There is no grace period for an expired license.
Topics covered in our Hawaii practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the Hawaii permit test
- Read the official Hawaii driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.