Hardship License and Restricted Driving in Hawaii

1. What is a Hardship License and how can I obtain one in Hawaii?


A hardship license, also known as a “restricted license,” is a type of driver’s license issued by the state of Hawaii that allows holders to drive only for specific purposes, such as going to work or school. To obtain a hardship license in Hawaii, you must meet certain criteria and complete an application with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Additionally, you must first complete a period of suspension due to certain circumstances, such as a DUI offense. The hardship license application process includes submitting proof of the need for your restricted license, payment of the required fees, and attending a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for a Hardship License in Hawaii?


In order to qualify for a Hardship License in Hawaii, an individual must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Have a valid driver license.
3. Have a negative balance on their driving record, meaning no major convictions or violations in the last three years.
4. Have a valid hardship application approved by the Department of Transportation.
5. Have proof of financial responsibility in the form of an SR-22 or other evidence of insurance.
6. Prove a financial need for the license, such as for employment, medical care, or attending school.

3. What are the restrictions on a Hardship License in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, a Hardship License is available to drivers whose license has been suspended or revoked due to a DUI conviction. The requirements for eligibility include completing a drug and alcohol evaluation, enrolling in an approved substance abuse treatment program, and providing proof of financial responsibility. The license only allows the driver to operate a motor vehicle for essential activities such as attending school, work, court-ordered appointments, and medical care. The license is valid for up to one year and can be renewed by meeting the same criteria.

4. How much does a Hardship License cost in Hawaii?


A hardship license in Hawaii costs $15 for the license and $25 for the processing fee, for a total of $40.

5. What documents do I need to apply for a Hardship License in Hawaii?


In order to apply for a Hardship License in Hawaii, you must provide the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) with:

1. A completed application form.
2. A valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or military ID.
3. Proof of financial hardship such as recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer verifying loss of income or benefit.
4. Proof of enrollment in a defensive driving course, if applicable.
5. A signed statement from you and your spouse or guardian confirming that the hardship license is necessary to maintain your economic well-being.
6. Proof of liability insurance coverage.
7. Any other supporting documentation requested by the HDOT.

6. How long does it take to get a Hardship License in Hawaii?


There is no set timeframe for the process of obtaining a Hardship License in Hawaii. The process can take anywhere from 8 weeks to several months depending on the individual’s circumstances and the thoroughness of their application.

7. Can I use a Hardship License to drive to work in Hawaii?


No, Hawaii does not offer a Hardship License. If your license is suspended or revoked, you will not be able to drive to work until the suspension or revocation has been resolved.

8. Can I use a Hardship License to attend medical appointments in Hawaii?


No, a Hardship License is only available for those whose driving privileges have been suspended or revoked in Hawaii and are considered necessary for the person’s employment, health, maintenance of the family, or education. Medical appointments are not included in this list.

9. What are the laws for Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii is an order from the court that grants an individual the ability to drive for specific purposes and limited times. These laws vary by state. In Hawaii, to obtain an RDP a driver must meet the following requirements:

1. Must have been charged with Operating a Vehicle under the Influence of an Intoxicant (OVUII) or a combination of OVUII and other charges.

2. Must have a valid Hawaii driver’s license or Hawaii provisional license.

3. Must be at least 18 years old.

4. Must have no more than one OVUII or two alcohol-related convictions within 10 years of the date of the current OVUII charge.

5. The RDP shall be in effect for 1 year from the date of issuance and cannot be renewed.

6. The RDP cannot be issued within 48 hours of an OVUII arrest or conviction.

7. The RDP must be used only for necessary travel to and from work, school, medical treatment or court-ordered activities related to the current OVUII charge or any pending criminal case.

8. The vehicle used while operating with an RDP must be equipped with an adequate, functioning Ignition Interlock Device (IID).

9. The RDP must be displayed on the dashboard at all times while driving with an IID installed in the vehicle.

10. Can I apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


No, the State of Hawaii does not offer Restricted Driving Privileges (RDPs).

11. How much does a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) cost in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, the cost of a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) varies depending on the length of the suspension and the type of violation. Generally, the cost can range from $25 to $250.

12. What documents do I need to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


To apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii, you must submit proof of identity such as a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID, proof that you have completed an alcohol or drug assessment or evaluation, and proof of financial responsibility. In addition to these documents, you must also submit a signed application, an RDP fee of $50, proof of enrollment in a responsible beverage service program, and proof of Ignition Interlock Installation.

13. What are the restrictions for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


Restricted Driving Privileges (RDPs) in Hawaii are available to individuals whose driver’s license has been suspended or revoked due to certain violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI), habitual traffic violations, and failure to comply with a court order. A person must demonstrate financial responsibility (proof of insurance) before an RDP can be issued. The restrictions for an RDP vary depending on the type of violation, but generally include:

– A geographic restriction limiting where a person may drive;
– A restriction on the hours of the day when driving is permitted;
– Driving exclusively for work, school, or medical treatment purposes;
– Completion of a course in substance abuse education; and
– Installation of an ignition interlock device.

14. How long does it take to get a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


The State of Hawaii allows individuals who have had their license suspended to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP). The length of time it takes to get an RDP depends on the individual circumstances, but typically varies from two to six weeks.

15. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to drive to work in Hawaii?


No, Hawaii does not offer Restricted Driving Privileges. However, if you are eligible for a license reinstatement, you may be able to apply for a new license in order to drive to work.

16. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) for medical appointments in Hawaii?


No, Hawaii does not allow restricted driving privileges. Drivers who have had their license revoked or suspended due to a medical condition are not eligible to receive a restricted driving privilege in Hawaii.

17. Are there any other restrictions on my driving privileges in Hawaii?


Yes. In addition to the restrictions listed above, the following may also apply to drivers in Hawaii:

-Drivers under 18 must hold a learner’s permit for six months before they can apply for a provisional license.

-Drivers must be at least 21 years old to obtain a full unrestricted driver’s license.

-Drivers must be 17 years old before they can obtain a provisional license.

-Drivers must complete a driver’s education course before obtaining a license.

-Drivers may not use any type of cellular phone, including hands-free device, while driving.

-Drivers are not allowed to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system.

-Drivers are prohibited from driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. without supervision by an adult who is at least 21 years old and has held a valid license for at least three years.

18. Who is eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, the court may grant a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to a person if:

• The individual holds a valid driver’s license that has been expired for more than 90 days;
• The individual is facing a hardship due to the loss of the ability to drive;
• The individual requires a restricted license in order to obtain or maintain employment, attend school, participate in an alcohol or drug treatment program, or for medical reasons; and
• The individual will not pose a risk to public safety.

19. How long is the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) is valid for one year from the date of its issuance.

20. Are there any additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Hawaii?


No, there are no additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege in Hawaii.