Quick Answer
Yes — Hawaii allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under HB 1826 (2015). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Hawaii DMV office.
- Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of state residency dated within 60 days).
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
The license is valid for driving throughout the state but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Hawaii Without an SSN?
Yes. Hawaii allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under HB 1826 (2015). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Hawaii passed HB 1826 in 2015. Given Hawaii's significant immigrant population, the DMV is generally well-equipped for these applications.
License type
Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.
What Documents Do I Need?
Bring 2 categories of document to your Hawaii DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Hawaii residency, which generally requires 2 documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
- 1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport
- 2Proof of Hawaii residency — 2 documents required: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail
Tip
Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
- Step 1: Gather your foreign passport and 2 proofs of HI residency
- Step 2: Visit a Hawaii DMV office
- Step 3: Complete the application, knowledge test, vision and road tests
- Step 4: License issued or mailed
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Hawaii driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Hawaii, qualify for car insurance, use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes, and present it as proof of identity to open a bank account. It cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight.
- Drive legally anywhere in Hawaii
- Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
- Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
- Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account
You cannot use this license to:
- Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
- Enter federal buildings or military bases
- Prove immigration status or work authorization
Next step: build credit
A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii HB 1826 (2015) allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver's license with a foreign passport and two proofs of Hawaii residency. No SSN is required.
Is the Hawaii driver's license REAL ID compliant? Can I use it to fly?
No. The Hawaii driver's license issued to undocumented immigrants under HB 1826 is not REAL ID compliant. You cannot use it to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. For air travel, you need a passport or another TSA-accepted form of ID.
Can DACA recipients get a driver's license in Hawaii?
Yes. DACA recipients can get a driver's license in Hawaii. They may use either the standard REAL ID process (with their Employment Authorization Document and Social Security Number) or the alternative process under HB 1826 using a foreign passport and proof of residency.
How long is the Hawaii driver's license valid before renewal?
Hawaii driver's licenses are generally valid for 8 years. Drivers age 72 and older receive a 2-year license. The Hawaii DMV will send a renewal notice before your expiration date.
What if I don't have a foreign passport? Can I use a Consular ID in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii accepts a Consular ID (such as a Mexican matrícula consular) or other government-issued photo ID from your country of origin in place of a passport. You still need two proofs of Hawaii residency dated within 60 days of your application.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Hawaii, 19 states and Washington D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants without requiring an SSN. Each sets its own document rules, but all accept a foreign passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security Number. Browse the full list by state:
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →