You may operate a moped using your current driver’s license. You must obtain a Class 2 license to operate a motorcycle or motor scooter.

*** EFFECTIVE 12/26/2025 *** - Per Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §286-110 Act 66 now requires all applicants for a Class 2 Instruction Permit to take a state-approved basic safety rider course prior to applying for a permit to operate a motorcycle/motor scooter on State of Hawaii roadways.

Requirements for Motorcycle Instruction Permit

1. Complete and receive a Certificate of Completion 
2. Complete and print application for Instruction Permit / Class 2 (please present your printed application to the clerk);
3. Present identifying documents for proof of name, date of birth and social security number (see List of Acceptable Documents);
4. Present original or certified copy of document(s) for proof of legal presence
5. Present two (2) documents for Proof of Residence Address (If your post office box is your mailing address, you must also bring in a document with your physical address listed).
6. Successfully Pass vision screening
7. Have a clear driving record on the National Driver Registry
8. Successfully pass the motorcycle written test
9. Successfully pass the rules of road written test (if you do not currently hold a Class 3 license)

Requirements for Moped Instruction Permit

1. Complete application for Instruction Permit / Class 1
2. Present identifying documents for proof of name, date of birth and social security number (See List of Acceptable Documents);
3. Present original or certified copy of document(s) for proof of legal presence (See List of Acceptable Documents);
4. Present two (2) documents for Proof of Residence Address (If your post office box is your mailing address, you must also bring in a document with your physical address listed).
5. Successfully pass vision screening
6. Have a clear driving record on the National Driver Registry
7. Successfully pass rules of the road written test
8. Successfully pass the motorcycle written test

Restrictions for Motorcycle/Moped Permit

1. You may not operate a motorcycle/moped at night.
2. You may not carry any passengers.
3. You must wear DOT inspected helmet, goggles
4. You may not renew your instruction permit unless you have attempted to take the motorcycle skills test.
5. Once your motorcycle/moped instruction permit expires, you must wait 90 days and reapply as a new applicant.

Study Material

• Hawai‘i State Driver’s License Manual1
• Motorcycle Manual²

¹The Hawai‘i State Driver’s Manual is also available for purchase at most of the local stores.

²The Motorcycle Manual and Commercial Driver License Manual are available for purchase at the Hilo, Kona and Waimea Driver License Office.