Honolulu DMV Implements Paper Printouts for Temporary Licenses and IDs

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Honolulu Division of Motor Vehicles will transition to issuing temporary driver’s licenses and state identification cards on standard 8.5-by-11-inch white paper, effective October 19. This new format replaces the previously used small temporary cards with black-and-white printouts.

This change, part of a modernization initiative and aligned with the DMV Association’s 2025 DL/ID Card Design Standard, is intended to improve the efficiency and security of DMV operations. Expired plastic cards will be punctured and returned to applicants along with the new temporary documents. DCS Director Kim Hashiro stated that while the visual format is different, it signifies a significant enhancement in how DMV functions.

The temporary paper license allows residents to drive legally while awaiting their permanent cards, which will be mailed within five weeks. Notably, the new document will include a QR code for tracking the status of the permanent card online. However, residents should be aware that these printouts are not accepted by the TSA for airport security, similar to the prior format.