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There’s a big demand for commercial drivers in Hawaii, and this is the right time to consider getting a driving license for this type of vehicle.
However, driving tour buses is a much more common job opportunity than driving trucks, but keep in mind that the requirements are generally similar and you’ll still need a license.
Let’s learn more!
Article Table of Contents
Requirements
Unlike with other states, Hawaii only accepts candidates that are over the age of 21, so you’ll have to show your birth certificate.
At the same time, you’ll have to prove your identity as well, proof you’re a resident of Hawaii and that you have the right to work in USA, and your social security card.
Your history as a driver during the past 10 years is also needed, and it includes Washington, D.C.
You’ll also have to pass a few tests, including the vision, knowledge and driving tests.
Do know these are not free, and that the driving one is made of 3 parts that you take at the same time, and you have to pass them all at the same time as well.
You can’t apply without the DOT 4-764 form and a passport-type photo.
Which School?
There are a few schools you can attend, and you have the possibility of becoming a diesel technician as well if you don’t want to become a driver.
The tuition is pretty affordable while scholarships are also easy to come by, though high school seniors are more likely to get them.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| H2K Driver Training Svc LLC | 117 Keawe St Ste 127, Hilo, HI 96720 |
| International CDL Driving School | 92-577 Awawa St, Kapolei, HI 96707 |
| Kilakalua Abe Truck Driving Training & Operation | 89-647 Mokiawe St, Waianae, HI 96792 |
| Leeward Community College | 96-045 Ala'Ike, Pearl City, HI 96782 |
| Professional Driving Academy | 91-1224 Midway St, Kapolei, HI 96707 |
| Valentine's Driving School Inc | 3355 Likini St, Honolulu, HI 96818 |
| West Coast CDL Driving School | 86-178 Moelima Pl, Waianae, HI 96792 |
These schools offer multiple programs, and some of them even allow the students to choose up to 3.
You can obtain a Certificate of Completion or a Certificate of Achievement in about a year’s time, or go for the longer Associate’s Degree that lasts 2 years.
All the diesel technology programs offer plenty of hands-on experience, usually taking place in the school’s garage or lab.
To become a bus driver, you’ll need a special endorsement and the Class C driving license.
The Class C license is for single or combination vehicles that are meant to carry at least 16 people, with the driver.
Income
Drivers in Hawaii earn on average about $46,401 per year, while those in the top 10% earn about $53,775 per year.
The median salary in the United States for these drivers is $44,225 a year, with those in the top 10% making on average $51,254 per year.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Honolulu | $46,109 |
| Pearl City | $46,109 |
| Hilo | $45,800 |
| Waipahu | $46,088 |
| Kailua | $46,109 |
| Kaneohe | $46,109 |
| Kahului | $45,800 |
| Mililani | $46,026 |
| Kihei | $45,800 |
| Kapolei | $46,006 |
Regional Salary in Hawaii
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina, HI | 550 | $56,850 | $27.33 | $73,770 | $45,500 |
| Urban Honolulu, HI | 2,780 | $55,410 | $26.64 | $70,610 | $44,790 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
There are few options to drive trucks in Hawaii because it is made of several islands and they’re pretty far away from the mainland US.
There are many companies seeking both bus drivers and diesel mechanics, and the demand for these 2 professions is expected to increase at least 10%.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Truck Driver
CDL Schools by State