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Commercial Driver (CDL) License in Hawaii

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Commercial Driver (CDL) license in HI. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$250

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

CDL Knowledge & Skills Test

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Commercial Driver (CDL) license in Hawaii.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Commercial Driver (CDL) training program in Hawaii.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your HI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Hawaii licensing board and pay the $250 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in HI. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Commercial Driver (CDL) in Hawaii, the licensing process begins with education. HI mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Hawaii regulatory board.

Requirements

The Hawaii licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Commercial Driver (CDL) professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test. HI also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Commercial Driver (CDL) license in Hawaii is approximately $250. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. HI also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Hawaii may incur additional penalties of up to $63.

License Fee Calculator — Commercial Driver (CDL) in Hawaii

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

License renewal for Commercial Driver (CDL) professionals in Hawaii occurs on a 5-year cycle. HI charges a renewal fee of $150 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Hawaii at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Commercial Driver (CDL) in HI

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Hawaii requires renewal every 5 years.

Additional Information

Hawaii takes professional licensing seriously, and the Commercial Driver (CDL) field is no exception. The state board in HI regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Commercial Driver (CDL) in Hawaii, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The HI licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Commercial Driver (CDL)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Hawaii Commercial Driver (CDL) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize HI Commercial Driver (CDL) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize HI Commercial Driver (CDL) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Hawaii

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Honolulu

335 Merchant St, Honolulu, HI 96813

(808) 586-3000

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Hilo

75 Aupuni St, Hilo, HI 96720

(808) 961-8223

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Kailua-Kona

75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 323-4500

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Kahului

2145 Kaohu St, Wailuku, HI 96793

(808) 984-8230

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Lihue

3060 Eiwa St, Lihue, HI 96766

(808) 274-3100

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Hawaii Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Hawaii state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.