
The Hawaii permit knowledge test is available in 14 language versions in person. The KnowToDrive online Class 3 test is available in English and Spanish, with read-aloud support in those two languages.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation offers the in-person computerized test in 14 languages. Online testing is restricted to English and Spanish only.
A Tagalog speaker in Honolulu visited the Kapalama center and selected Tagalog directly on the testing screen, no advance request needed. Spanish speakers can take the online KnowToDrive test from home with full Spanish support, skipping the trip to a licensing center entirely.
Digital copies of the Hawaii Driver's Manual are available in 13 languages plus English to help you prepare in your preferred language.
HDOT provides the knowledge test in English plus 13 translated languages, but the safest approach is to confirm the requested language with the county licensing office before you visit. Office procedures and testing equipment can differ by location.
Yes. Choosing another available language does not create a different Class 3 passing standard. The exam is 30 questions and more than six errors is a failure.
For the standard in-person computerized test, select one of the available language versions at the testing center. If you need an oral test or another accommodation, contact the licensing office in advance because availability and scheduling can differ by location.
For disability-specific interpreter or accessibility needs, use the dedicated Disability Accommodations page.
The state-provided translations are official and mandatory. Using a personal translator, dictionary, or phone during the test will result in immediate disqualification.
A Korean test-taker in Maui got confused by a question showing an English 'ONE WAY' sign. The question text was in Korean, but the sign itself must be recognized in English. this caught them off guard and cost a point. Road signs appear in English on all test versions regardless of selected language; memorize their shapes and colors before your appointment.
| Feature | In person | Online KnowToDrive |
|---|---|---|
| Languages | 14 language versions | English and Spanish |
| Read-aloud / oral support | Accommodation route may be available; confirm with the licensing office. | Read-aloud support in English and Spanish. |
| Where to test | Driver licensing center | Eligible applicants can test remotely using the required device and proctoring setup. |
Disability-specific accommodations belong in the dedicated Disability Accommodations page.
Testing fees vary by county; use the Fees & Costs page for current amounts.
Ask the county licensing office which official language options it can provide before scheduling or traveling. If the issue involves reading, hearing or another disability rather than language preference, use the dedicated Disability Accommodations guidance instead of assuming a personal interpreter can be used.
Can you take the Hawaii online permit test in Spanish if your application is completed in English? Yes. KnowToDrive offers the online Class 3 test in English or Spanish. Choosing Spanish for the test does not change the separate permit-application document requirements.
Study the official Hawaii Driver's Manual in your preferred available language and learn the road-sign shapes, colors and meanings used on Hawaii roads.
Document requirements and appointment wait times belong in the Required Documents and Appointments & SOS guides.
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