Learn about driving restrictions and specific initiatives aimed at keeping Hawaii’s elderly drivers and highways safe.
Driving rules in Hawaii are enforced by the following agencies, depending on the county:
While the numerous Hawaii driving authorities police a plethora of laws and regulations that apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes certain unique requirements and limits on senior drivers.
The Hawaii state standards are discussed in further detail below, but a few of them concentrate on recognizing and dealing with elderly drivers who may have become risky.
In particular, Hawaii:
Drivers 72 and older must renew their licenses every two years, and driving authorities have the authority to limit licenses in the interest of keeping drivers and highways safe.
To renew their licenses, all applicants must fill out a Driver’s License Application. Drivers 72 and older who want to renew their licenses must follow special criteria.
Drivers 72 and older must renew their licenses every two years. Drivers aged 21 to 71 must renew their licenses every six years, but those under 21 might be awarded a four-year license.
Renewal requires a vision exam.
Written test: At the discretion of the licensing authority, a written test may be needed.
Road test: At the discretion of the licensing authority, a road test may be necessary.
Driving authorities may impose limits or conditions on a driver’s license in order to keep both the driver and the roads safe. The most prevalent limitation for senior drivers is the need for corrective lenses or glasses.
Other frequent regulations that the DMV may place on senior drivers and their automobiles in Hawaii include:
vehicles equipped with outside mirrors driving only vehicles with automatic transmissions\s driving only vehicles with power steering\s no nighttime driving\s vehicles with full hand equipment\s vehicles equipped with mechanical signals\s vehicles equipped with a steering knob\s wearing hearing aids while driving, and\s wearing prosthetic aids while driving.
Unlike other states, Hawaii does not have a formal mechanism in place for family members, friends, and other concerned persons to report a motorist who has become hazardous behind the wheel. Driving authorities have the authority to order medical examinations for drivers who have become hazardous behind the wheel; medical practitioners must report their findings on a Medical Report Form.
For further information, contact your county’s licensing authorities.
The Hawaii Office of Aging may provide disabled person parking placards and plates to drivers with restricted mobility if a registered medical practitioner verifies the condition.
Placards and license plates are available for people who:
To receive a disability placard or plate, you must do the following:
