Hawaii Car Rental: Licence, Road Rules and Parking
Visitors aged 18+ can drive in Hawaii on a valid foreign licence for up to one year after entry; the Honolulu DMV strongly recommends also carrying an IDP. Handheld phone use while driving is banned. On Oahu, check hotel parking fees before renting.
Can you drive with a foreign licence?
Per the Honolulu DMV FAQ, a driver at least 18 with a valid foreign licence may use it for up to one year after entry. An IDP is strongly recommended (for 1949 Geneva Convention countries such as Korea).
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What to bring
- Korean driving licence
- Korean IDP (strongly recommended)
- Passport
- Credit card in the driver's name
Road rules that catch visitors out
- Traffic keeps right; limits are in mph.
- Right turn on red is allowed after stopping and yielding unless prohibited.
- Stop at least 20 ft from a school bus with flashing signals, in all adjacent lanes; on a divided road only the same side stops.
- No handheld phone or device use while driving ($300 fine; $400 in school and construction zones).
- Everyone must wear a seat belt, front and back. Children under 4 need a car seat; ages 4 to under 10 need a car seat or booster (ages 7–9 over 4'9" may use a belt).
- Drink-driving limit: 0.08% blood alcohol.
Insurance to check
- CDW/LDW limits your cost if the car is damaged or stolen.
- Check included liability limits and whether supplemental liability is offered.
- Check whether your credit card's rental cover applies abroad and what it excludes.
Booking tips
- On Oahu, check your hotel's parking fee and consider renting only for the days you leave Waikiki.
- Each island is a separate rental; you cannot drive between islands.
- Neighbour islands (Maui, Big Island, Kauai) are harder to explore without a car.
FAQ
How long can I drive on a Korean licence in Hawaii?
Up to one year after entry if you are 18 or older; an IDP is strongly recommended.
Can I use my phone for navigation?
Only hands-free (drivers 18+). Holding the device while driving is illegal.