Informing the Legislature that on May 19, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1163 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 019).

2026 Regular Session

Hawaii now requires CDL applicants to meet federal standards, pass tests, provide proper citizenship/residency proof, and follow updated medical certification and intrastate waiver

Received.

#act019

Main purpose and intent

The bill updates Hawaii's commercial driver licensing framework to align with federal standards and clarifies licensure requirements for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. It codifies eligibility criteria, testing, and credentialing processes to ensure compliance with federal safety regulations while incorporating state-specific provisions.

Key provisions and changes

Section 286-236(a) amendments:

To be issued a commercial driver's license (CDL), an applicant must meet: 1) Qualification standards of 49 CFR Part 391, subparts B and E. 2) Pass knowledge and driving skills tests for CMVs that meet minimum federal standards in 49 CFR Part 383, subparts G and H. 3) Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency as specified in 49 CFR Part 383.71(a)–(c) (or obtain a non-domiciled CDL or non-domiciled CDL learner’s permit as per 49 CFR 383.71(f)). 4) Satisfy all other requirements of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-570, Title XII), in addition to state or federal requirements.
Tests are prescribed by the director and administered by the county examiner of drivers. Examiners must communicate with applicants in English during the skills test.
Medical certification verification:
As of Jan 30, 2012, the examiner must verify medical certification status for self-certified drivers (interstate, non-excepted).
If a valid medical examiner’s certificate is submitted, the examiner must date-stamp and post required information to the CDL information system per 49 CFR 383.73(b)(5) and 383.73(o).
Intrastate waivers:
A person not medically qualified under 49 CFR 391.41(b)(1) or (2) but otherwise qualified may receive an intrastate waiver.
Waiver process mirrors interstate waivers under 49 CFR 391.49; intrastate waiver requests are submitted to the director.

Repeal/markup:

Some prior text is repealed and replaced with the new language; the exact revised provisions are reflected by the underscored/struck format in the bill text.

Effective date:

The act takes effect upon approval (May 19, 2026).

Who/what is affected

Prospective and current CDL applicants and license holders in Hawaii.

Hawaii Department of Transportation (Director) and county examiners of drivers.

CDL medical certification program participants (drivers self-certifying, non-domiciled drivers, and those seeking waivers).

Federal-aligned testing and qualification processes for CMV operators.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill was signed into law by the Governor on May 19, 2026 (Act 019) and takes effect upon approval.

Testing and certification processes remain aligned with federal regulations found in 49 CFR Parts 383, 391, and related sections.

Administrative steps include:

English-language requirements during skills tests.
Verification and posting of medical certification status into the CDL information system.
Processing of intrastate waivers consistent with federal waiver procedures.

Practical impact

Enhances alignment between Hawaii’s CDL requirements and federal safety standards.

Clarifies documentation (citizenship/residency) and data handling (medical certification) for CDL applicants.

Provides a formal intrastate waiver pathway for drivers who are not medically qualified but otherwise capable of operating CMVs safely.

May affect applicants’ timelines due to clarified testing and certification processes and potential need for waivers where applicable.

Bill