Enrolling kids in Hawaiʻi public schools

Hawaiʻi has one statewide school district (HIDOE). Children attend the home school for the address where they live, and new arrivals need a Hawaiʻi TB clearance, a physical exam done within the past year, immunization records, and proof of address. Students can sometimes start provisionally while health papers are finished.

• Home school: assigned by your legal address. To attend a different public school you must request a geographic exception.
• Proof of address: lease, mortgage or property tax record, or a utility bill in the parent's name. A notarized statement works if you live with family or friends.
• Health: a physical exam within one year before first attending a Hawaiʻi school, a TB clearance done in Hawaiʻi, and immunizations by grade. Only medical or religious exemptions are allowed.
• Also bring: the child's birth certificate, a parent photo ID, the last report card or transcript, and withdrawal papers from the previous school.
• Provisional entry may be allowed with proof of an upcoming medical appointment.
• Families in unstable housing can enroll right away; contact the homeless education program at 808-723-4192.

Sources: Hawaiʻi DOE: student health and immunization requirements · Hawaiʻi DOE: geographic exceptions

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.