New Driver's License and State ID

First major upgrade to Hawaii’s driver’s license and State ID in several years!

Hawaii introduces a newly redesigned driver’s license and State ID.

This major upgrade combines enhanced security features and processes with a dynamic, modern design – all to better protect the identities of Hawaii citizens.

No Need to Upgrade
Residents with a valid driver’s license or State ID are not required to obtain the redesigned credential immediately. Existing credentials will remain valid through their expiration dates.

Enhanced Security and Hawaii-Inspired Design

Made of 100% polycarbonate material, the card body is more durable, secure, and tamper-resistant.

Additional security features include laser engraved black and white photo and personal data providing ultimate protection against data manipulation and forgery.

The new card design showcases imagery that captures the spirt of Hawaii, including the iconic rainbow and island chain. The card back features breaking waves of the Pacific Ocean and the state fish.

These design elements are among the new security features used to assist in the deterrence and detection of fraud.

Resources

For additional information about the new design, click here to view our brochure(PDF, 2MB)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is the design changing?

Hawaii last updated its driver license and ID card in 2009. Hawaiʻi’s new credential uses the latest technology to safeguard your personal information and provide residents with the most secure credential on the market today.

What are some of the features of the new card?

100% polycarbonate material that consists of multiple layers of plastic, fused together without adhesives, to form a solid structure resistant to tampering. The high durability of polycarbonate also provides the longest lifespan of any card, allowing for extended card life without compromise.
Laser-engraved photo and personal information for optimum protection against data manipulation and forgery attempts.
Anti-Counterfeit patterns – unique patterns incorporated into the design elements and embossed on the surface of the card for more layers of protection.

How does this new design help with fraud protection and protecting against theft?

The new cards feature key enhanced security features as laser-engraved black and white photos as well as personal data that protect against ID theft and counterfeiting. The card also offers tamper-resistant patterns and tactile text on the cards making it extremely difficult to modify or duplicate.

When will the new cards be available?

The new card design will be put into production in 2026.

Do I need to get a new card immediately, or can I wait until my current card expires?

If you have a valid driver’s license or State ID, you are not required to obtain the redesigned card. Your current card will remain valid until its expiration date.

Will the new card address previous complaints regarding recognition issues at TSA?

Yes. This new design incorporates holographic images compatible with TSA’s ID verification systems, resolving the scanning issues previously reported to our department.

Does Hawaii's driver licensing system verify immigration data to ensure that IDs issues to temporary residents expire concurrently with their authorized stay?

Expiration dates set for driver’s licenses issued to non-citizens will not be longer than anyone’s lawful status in the United States.

Can I use my temporary ID when traveling?

No, the temporary card issued when obtaining or renewing a Hawaii driver’s license or state identification card IS NOT accepted for traveling or for federal purposes.