Honolulu DMV Offers Saturday Appointments, Scam Alert and Free ID Replacements

Honolulu drivers have several new opportunities and important warnings from the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Customer Services. To help meet demand for road tests and driver licensing appointments, the department has added select Saturday appointment days this month. On August 2 the Kapalama and Kapahulu licensing centers will offer Saturday road‑test appointments, on August 9 the Wahiawa center will open, and on August 23 the Kapolei center will host Saturday appointments. These Saturday slots must be booked through the AlohaQ online booking system and are released on the Wednesday before each date. Walk‑ins are not allowed, so motorists should plan ahead and reserve a spot online.

The department also issued a consumer alert about fraudulent text and email messages that claim to be from the DMV. Scammers have been sending links threatening to suspend your registration or impose fines if you do not click and pay immediately. Officials emphasize that the DMV will never send unsolicited text messages or emails demanding payment or personal information. If you receive such a message, delete it immediately and do not click on any links. Residents can report suspicious messages to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

A third update involves a printing defect on some recently issued Hawaii driver’s licenses and state IDs. Some cards do not scan properly at TSA checkpoints. Customers affected by this defect can visit any Honolulu driver licensing center to receive a free replacement card; no appointment is necessary, but you must bring your defective card and a valid form of ID. The new card will be processed on the spot. In addition, Honolulu has launched an online learner’s permit test that allows applicants to take the knowledge exam from home using a computer and a smartphone with a camera. In‑person testing continues at select centers, but the online option adds flexibility for busy families. There are no fee changes associated with these announcements, but the department encourages residents to take advantage of online services and avoid last‑minute scheduling.