Hawaii
Driver Information By State
Every state regulates driver's license eligibility of persons with certain medical conditions. The most common requirement for people with epilepsy is that they be seizure free for a specific period of time and submit a physician's evaluation of their ability to drive safely. Another common requirement is the periodic submission of medical reports, in some states for a specified period of time and in others for as long as the person remains licensed.
Select the state you want to find information about, or if you are moving and would like to compare two states' driving laws side by side? Choose the two states below to compare.
| Law | Hawaii |
|---|---|
| DMV Appeal of License Denial | Yes |
| Doctors to Report Epilepsy | No |
| Periodic Medical Updates Required After Licensing | At discretion of DMV |
| Seizure-Free Period | 6 months with exceptions |
Hawaii Driver Licensing Laws
In Hawaii, in order to be eligible for a driver's license, an individual must be seizure free for six months, with exceptions, as reported by a physician to the examiner of drivers. HAW. CODE R. § 19-122-362(1) (2020). Each case is considered individually. The medical information submitted is reviewed by the Medical Advisory Board. HAW. REV. STAT. § 286-4.1 (2020). A physician who provides such information is not explicitly immune from civil liability for damages arising out of an accident caused by a seizure. Restricted licenses are available. HAW. REV. STAT. § 286-103 (2020). A person whose license has been denied or suspended for medical reasons may appeal the decision of the examiner of drivers to the circuit court of the circuit in which the individual resides. HAW. REV. STAT. §§ 286-119, 286-129 (2020). This appeal must be made within thirty days of notification of the denial or suspension. HAW. REV. STAT. § 286-129 (2020).
Commercial Driving
Hawaii has adopted the federal regulations regarding licensing persons with epilepsy to drive trucks and school buses. HAW. REV. STAT. § 286-236 (2020). Waivers are not available for persons with epilepsy. People with epilepsy may be licensed to drive taxis.
Hawaii Identification Card
One may obtain an identification card through the State Identification Office. There is a $15 fee for individuals under the age of 65 and a $10 fee for individuals 65 and older.
Hawaii Reporting
Hawaii has no statute requiring the reporting to a state agency of one who has been treated for or diagnosed as having a seizure disorder.
© 2020 Epilepsy Foundation. All rights reserved. This summary was developed for informational purposes by the Epilepsy Foundation and reflects a review of data available as of August 2020. Information is subject to change. This summary is not a substitute for legal advice. For further information, please consult your state Department of Motor Vehicles.