Truck Driving Programs in Hawaii

How to Get Your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Hawaii

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Hawaii opens doors to rewarding career opportunities in transportation and logistics. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the requirements, process, and resources available for obtaining your CDL in the Aloha State.

What are the Basic Requirements for a CDL in Hawaii?

To qualify for a CDL in Hawaii, you must meet these essential requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old for a CDL permit (21 for a full CDL license)
  • Complete mandatory FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
  • Possess a valid DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
  • Pass a vision test with at least 20/40 acuity in each eye
  • Provide two documents proving Hawaii residency
  • Complete the Hawaii Commercial Driver’s License Application

What Types of CDL Licenses are Available?

Hawaii offers three classes of commercial driver’s licenses:

  • Class A: For combination vehicles with a gross combined weight of 26,001+ pounds
  • Class B: For single vehicles weighing 26,001+ pounds
  • Class C: For vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers or hazardous materials

Additional endorsements available include:

  • Hazardous Materials (HME)
  • Passenger Transport (P)
  • Tank Vehicles (T)
  • School Bus (S)

How Much Does CDL Training Cost in Hawaii?

CDL program costs typically range from $3,000 to $7,000. Several financial aid options are available through:

  • The Hawaii Trucking Association
  • State workforce development programs
  • Individual training schools

Where Can I Get CDL Training in Hawaii?

Here are the top CDL training providers in Hawaii:

Leeward Community College

  • Location: 96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City, HI 96782
  • Program: Comprehensive CDL training focusing on safety
  • Contact school for current tuition rates

Hawaii Trucking Academy

  • Location: 91-446 Komohana St, Kapolei, HI 96707
  • Offers various CDL classes and endorsements
  • Contact academy for pricing details

Honolulu Community College

  • Location: 874 Dillingham Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96817
  • Features experienced instructors and hands-on training
  • Visit website for current program costs

What are the Testing Requirements?

To obtain your CDL, you must pass:

  • Written knowledge tests ($15 for general knowledge, $5 for each special knowledge test)
  • Skills test ($50 fee) after completing ELDT
  • Additional endorsement tests as needed

What are the Job Prospects for Commercial Drivers in Hawaii?

The commercial driving industry in Hawaii shows promising growth. Major employers include:

Young Brothers, LLC

Hawaiian Freightways

How Do I Maintain My CDL?

CDL maintenance requirements include:

  • License renewal every 8 years (fees vary by duration)
  • Maintaining a current DOT Medical Certificate
  • Following all FMCSA regulations

Where Can I Find Additional Resources?

For more information, contact these official organizations:

Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT)

Hawaii Trucking Association

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

How Do I Get Started?

  1. Review the Hawaii CDL Manual
  2. Schedule a DOT physical examination
  3. Contact a certified training provider
  4. Begin your ELDT training
  5. Apply for your CDL permit
  6. Complete required testing
  7. Obtain your full CDL

Start your journey toward a rewarding career as a commercial driver in Hawaii by contacting one of the approved training providers today.

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