Hawaii is a beautiful island to explore nature and its wonders. If you’re planning to explore it independently, you can rent scooters or mopeds to travel around the island. Mopeds and scooters are compact, making them a very convenient transportation option. You can take them anywhere you want and stop anytime to enjoy the surrounding landscape. They are cost-efficient, fuel-efficient, and ideal for navigating bustling Hawaiian streets. However, to truly enjoy your scooter ride, you must adhere to legal requirements, such as having the appropriate license. In this article, I will guide you through the steps to obtain the right license.
Understanding Mopeds and Scooters in Hawaii
There is a subtle difference between a moped and a scooter in Hawaii, and the license requirements may vary for each. While mopeds are often considered a type of scooter, they differ from motor scooters.
Mopeds
Also known as motorized bicycles, mopeds are two- or three-wheeled vehicles with an engine displacement of 50cc or less and a maximum speed of 30 mph. They are smaller compared to larger, more powerful scooters.
Scooters
A motorized scooter has two wheels, a motor, handlebars, and a floorboard you can stand on while riding. You can only drive motorized scooters on bicycle paths, trails, or bikeways and not on sidewalks. You cannot exceed a speed of 15 mph with this vehicle. A regular driver’s license of any class is sufficient to operate a motorized scooter.
Motorcycle Scooters
These scooters typically have larger engines of more than 50cc and higher speed capabilities, making them classified as motorcycles in Hawaii. To drive a motorcycle scooter, you must have a motorcycle license (M1).
How to Get Scooter License
Here are the Eligibility and Requirements for obtaining a Scooter License
- You must be at least 15 years and six months old to apply for a scooter license
- You must have a valid driver’s license or a valid motorcycle license
- You must pass a vision test and a written exam
- You must complete a motorcycle safety course (optional but recommended)
- You must have adequate motorcycle liability insurance coverage
Obtaining a Moped or Motorcycle Instruction Permit
You can drive a moped with any class license. If you don’t have a license and desire only to drive a moped, a Class 1 license will meet your needs. It allows the holder to drive only mopeds, and both a knowledge and a practical test are required. You must obtain a Class 2 license to operate a motorcycle or motor scooter. Persons under the age of 18 must complete driver education requirements.
Here are the steps to get your instruction permit/driver’s license:
1. Prepare for the Application
To begin with, you can schedule an appointment at a Driver licensing center using eh AlohaQ system. You should know that appointments are essential for efficient processing. You can fill out the driver’s license application form accurately and ensure you gather and bring the following required documents to your appointment.
- You should provide proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport.
- You need to present your Social Security card.
- Proof of Hawaii Address: Two documents are required. For applicants under 18 who do not have two proof-of-address documents, parents’ documents can be used.
- You should submit a completed application form.
- Have a clear driving record on the National Driver Registry
- You should pay the required fee (varies by county).
- Applicants under 18 must submit a Parental Consent Form
2. Pass the Required Examinations
You’ll need to take several tests o examinations to make sure you’re eligible for the permit. You must successfully pass the rules of road written test (if you do not currently hold a Class 3 license. Make sure to study the Hawaii Driver’s Manual to prepare for the following tests:
Knowledge Test
To obtain a license for a motorcycle, motor scooter, or moped, you must pass a special written examination. The written test can be taken online for a fee of $12.00 or in person for $2.00.
This test covers road rules, highway signs, and safe driving practices. Additionally, you need to complete an off-road skills test. To pass this test you must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly. If you require detailed information and guidance, you can check out the Motorcycle Operator Manual, available at any field office or on the Hawaii Department of Transportation website.
Applicants taking the test in person must visit specific Driver Licensing Centers on designated days:
- Kapalama: Tuesday and Thursday
- Kapolei: Monday and Wednesday
- Koolau: Friday
- Wahiawa: Tuesday
- Waianae: Thursday
Vision Test
Your eyesight will be assessed to ensure you can drive safely. After completing the eye test you are required to pay the $5 learner’s permit fee
3. Conditions of the Instruction Permit
Once you pass the above-mentioned tests, you’ll receive an instruction permit valid for one year.
If you are learning to operate a motorcycle or scooter:
- You must carry the permit whenever driving
- You cannot drive a motorcycle/moper at night
- You must wear DOT inspected helmet, goggles
- You cannot carry passengers.
Retaking Tests and Renewals
If you hold a category 1 or 2 instruction permit (for motorcycles and scooters) and if it expires before you take the required driving test, you cannot renew it or get another permit for the same category without first attempting the driving test. If you fail to meet this requirement, you’ll need to wait three months before reapplying.
You can renew your instruction permit only within 30 days before or 90 days after its expiration. If you fail to renew within this window, you’ll need to start the process again, including retaking the above-mentioned tests.
4. Final Steps to Obtain Your License
Here are the requirements you need to follow to pass the Motorcycle/Moped Skill Test:
- Present Motorcycle/Moped Permit
- Present current registration
- Present current safety inspection form (safety inspection sticker must be on motorcycle/motor scooter/moped)
- Present current insurance card (not applicable for moped)
- DOT inspected helmet
- You must wear long sleeves or a jacket, pants, shoes or boots (no slippers)
Ps: If you are under the age of 18, you are required to hold your Class 1 or 2 permit for 180 days and submit a Driver Education Certificate and Behind the Wheel Motorcycle Certificate before applying for the skills test.
After practicing with your instruction permit and gaining confidence in driving, you can schedule a road test with the examiner of drivers. Bring your instruction permit, required identification, and proof of vehicle insurance if applicable. If you’re a prospective driver under 18, you must familiarize yourself with the Graduated Driver Licensing Program (GDL) requirements. Passing this test qualifies you for a full driver’s license, allowing you to operate your vehicle independently.
For Motorcycle, Motor Scooter, or Moped road tests, you have to book an appointment through the DMV.
- To schedule a road test in Hilo, call 961-2223 or email roadtestappt@hawaiicounty.gov.
- To schedule a road test in Kona, call 323-4800 or email konaroadtest@hawaiicounty.gov.
Test Site Locations:
- Hilo: Afook Chinen Civic Center at 323 Manono Street
- Kona: The outdoor basketball court next to Kekuaokalani Gym on Kuakini Highway
Pro Tip: Legally, a helmet is mandatory for riders below 18 years of age, but all riders should wear protective headgear for their safety.
Study Material
- Hawaii State Driver’s License Manual: The Hawaii State Driver’s Manual is also available for purchase at most local stores.
- Motorcycle Manual: The Motorcycle Manual and Commercial Driver License Manual are available for purchase at the Hilo, Kona, and Waimea Driver License Offices.
Special License Types
Hawaii offers several license categories for specific situations:
- New License for U.S. License Holders: Streamlined process for those with a valid U.S. license.
- Kupuna Driver’s License: This license is tailored for senior drivers.
- Limited Purpose Driver’s License: This does not require proof of legal presence but is not REAL ID compliant.
- International Licenses: Applicants from Japan, Korea, and Taiwan have specific requirements.
5. Registering and Insuring Your Scooter
One of the first legal requirements you need to follow is to register your motor scooter with the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles. This ensures that your vehicle is legal to operate and complies with state regulations. You must also have adequate motorcycle liability insurance coverage. A license plate or a decal sticker with your vehicle identification number is a must to show that your scooter has been registered. Finally, you must carry proof of insurance with you when operating your scooter.
For further assistance, visit or contact:
Driver’s License
349 Kapiolani Street Hilo, HI 96720 Telephone: (808) 961-2223
Conclusion
Getting your scooter or moped license is a manageable process if you carefully meet all the eligibility requirements and follow the proper steps. Hawaii is a great island to explore on your own, but remember to practice safe driving habits and obey traffic laws and regulations. Applying for a driver’s license in Hawaii is a detailed process so that all applicants meet the necessary legal and safety standards. Make sure you always carry your license or permit with you while driving. By following the steps in this guide you’ll be well prepared to obtain your Hawaii driver’s license. Enjoy and Safe Driving! Mahalo!
FAQs
Do I need a license to drive a scooter in Hawaii?
You may operate a moped using your current driver’s license. You must obtain a Class 2 license to operate a motorcycle or motor scooter.
Can you get a motorcycle license without a driver’s license in Hawaii?
To obtain a Class 2 motorcycle license in Hawaii, you must pass a motorcycle written test. If you don’t already hold a standard driver’s license, you’ll need to pass the written test for that as well. During the permit phase, you are not allowed to ride with passengers or operate your motorcycle at night.