HB 977 Summary

• Creates a new "commercial learner's permit" (CLP) that is tamper-proof, marked with "CLP" designation, and includes licensee information but not a photograph; permit is only valid when presented with an underlying commercial driver's license.

• Establishes three vehicle categories for CLPs (Category A for heavy combinations, Category B for single heavy vehicles, Category C for passenger vehicles or hazardous materials transporters) with corresponding endorsements ("P" for passenger, "N" for tank vehicles, "S" for school buses) and restrictions.

• Modifies commercial driver's license qualification standards to require applicants to pass the general knowledge test before receiving a CLP, allows renewal of CLPs for up to 180 days without retaking tests, and permits skills testing to occur in other states with results accepted by Hawaii.

• Changes terminology from "nonresident" to "non-domiciled" commercial driver's licenses and CLPs to align with federal regulations, and adds new endorsements and restrictions including "L", "Z", "E", "O", "M", and "N" codes for various vehicle types.

• Requires all surrendered driver's licenses to be shredded rather than returned to issuing authorities, and makes commercial driver's licenses and CLPs subject to mandatory recordation of traffic violations without expungement or diversion options.