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State Cert Guide

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Can I take defensive driving to dismiss a ticket in Hawaii?

The Hawaii law section we read does not say a course can dismiss a ticket. It lets a district judge order driving retraining. That is for a licensee who broke traffic laws so often within twelve months that it shows disrespect for the laws and disregard for the safety of others. Ask the court that has your ticket what it allows.

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The rule, fact by fact

Who needs it
A district judge may order driving retraining for frequent violators within twelve monthsRetraining starts with a judge's order.
Verified. www.capitol.hawaii.gov (opens state website) · checked Nov 13, 2026
Record review
A district judge can direct a licensee to report in person for a driving-record reviewReport in person.
Same source and date as above
Skipping the order
A no-show at the review or the course: fine up to $100, suspension up to a year, or bothDo not let the date pass.
Same source and date as above

How to get it done

  1. Step 1. If a district judge calls you to a review of your driving record, report in person as the judge says.

  2. Step 2. If the judge orders retraining, it comes from a driver instructor or a driver training school. Ask the court which one.

  3. Step 3. Attend the course. A no-show can bring a fine or a license suspension.

Before you pay

Wait for a judge's order before you pay for any course.

Check the deadline on your ticket so it does not pass while you wait.

Ask your insurer whether a course changes your rate.

Questions

Does a ticket from another state count in Hawaii?

It can. Hawaii's governor may sign agreements with other states to report convictions. A conviction reported that way, for an act that would break Hawaii traffic laws, is recorded against the driver the same as a Hawaii conviction.

Is there a Hawaii driver education program?

Yes, for teens. The state transportation department says it gives drivers under 18 a framework to build driving skills over time, to cut crashes, injuries and deaths of teen drivers.

Does this apply if I do not live in Hawaii?

A district judge can suspend a nonresident's Hawaii driving privilege in the same way, and for the same cause, as a Hawaii license.

What to do next

Read the Hawaii statute on driver licenses and violations for yourself. If a judge gives you an order, follow it.

www.capitol.hawaii.gov

Sources we read