Hawaii has recently updated its driver’s license renewal policies for senior citizens, aiming to accommodate the needs of healthy and active older drivers while maintaining road safety. Here’s what you need to know about license renewal for seniors in Hawaii:
Age-Based Renewal Periods
Ages 72-79
- As of January 1, 2023, drivers aged 72 to 79 can now renew their licenses for a four-year period, extended from the previous two-year requirement.
- This change affects more than 75,000 license holders in this age group on Oahu alone.
- The four-year renewal fee is $20.
Age 80 and Older
- Drivers aged 80 and older are still required to renew their licenses every two years.
Renewal Process
- Seniors can renew their licenses up to six months before the expiration date.
- Renewal can be done in person at the county’s Motor Vehicle & Licensing Office.
Required Documents
When renewing, applicants must present original or certified copies of documents proving:
- Identity
- Date of birth
- Legal presence
- Social Security Number
- Principal residence in Hawaii (two forms of proof)
Medical Certification
- Applicants must show that there aren’t any conditions that could impair their driving.
- If there are exhibited physical or mental medical conditions that could affect driving, a medical certificate (Form DOT-H2058) must be completed by a doctor.
- Drivers ages 72 and older with conditions that could impair driving are eligible for two-year driver’s licenses with the medical form.
Renewal Options
- In-person renewal is required for most seniors.
- Hawaii does not currently offer online license renewals.
- Mail-in renewal may be available in some cases, but this option is limited.
Grace Period and Reactivation
- An expired driver’s license may be renewed within 90 days after the expiration date.
- If not renewed within 90 days, a reactivation fee of $5 for each 30-day period will be assessed in addition to the regular license fee.
Special Considerations
- Legal immigrants’ licenses expire no later than their authorized period of stay in the United States.
- Military members on active duty outside the U.S. have a 90-day grace period after returning to renew an expired license.
Remember to check with your specific county’s licensing department for the most up-to-date information and any local variations in the renewal process. Early preparation and understanding these requirements will help ensure a smooth license renewal experience for seniors in Hawaii.
Source
- https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/local-news/2022-12-29/new-law-extends-license-renewal-period-for-seniors-beginning-in-2023
- https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Finance/Drivers-Licensing-and-Motor-Vehicles/Hawaii-Drivers-License-Renewals
- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/hi/hawaii/news/2022/12/27/drivers-age-72-to-79-can-get-four-year-licenses