TRANSPORTATION / MOTOR VEHICLE INFORMATION

Driver Licensing
Hawaii does not maintain a statewide Department of Motor Vehicles but relies on each county government to manage driver licensing and vehicle registration and titling. Newcomers who are at least 18 years old and hold a valid out-of-state license are exempt from obtaining Class 1, 2, and 3 licenses in Hawaii. These classifications cover motor scooters, motorcycles, and single vehicles with a GVWR of 15,000 pounds or less and those designed to transport 15 or fewer passengers. Those under 18 must satisfy instruction permit requirements for minors. Those who desire a state-issued license in Hawaii must complete all requirements including a written exam and eye test but the road test is usually waived. Information and documents that will be required in addition to your current valid driver license are your social security number, legal birth certificate, military identification if applicable, and any other supporting documents. Contact the appropriate county office for more specific information.

Vehicle Registration & Licensing
Hawaii requires annual registration of vehicles with fees based on vehicle weight and usage. The following will be required for newcomers: Out-of-state title (if available), a current Hawaii vehicle inspection certificate, your current registration, and a bill of lading. Proof of Hawaii motor vehicle insurance and your current registration will be required to obtain a vehicle inspection certificate. Vehicle safety inspections are available at authorized service stations and vehicle repair shops and are valid for one year. After completing the vehicle registration form, you must pay the license plate and emblem fees. For further information, contact the appropriate office:

City & County of Honolulu
Motor Vehicles and Licensing
Honolulu, Oahu 808-527-6695
www.honolulu.gov/csd

County of Hawaii
Motor Vehicles and Licensing
Hilo 808-961-8351
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 808-327-3543
www.co.hawaii.hi.us

County of Kauai
Motor Vehicles and Licensing
Lihue, Kauai 808-241-6577
www.kauai.gov

County of Maui
Motor Vehicles and Licensing
Kahului, Maui 808-270-7363
www.mauicounty.gov

Vehicle Safety Laws
Hawaii state law requires that all children under age four be properly secured in a federally approved car seat or booster seat. Children ages 4-17 must be secured by a properly fitting seat belt when riding in the rear seat. All front seat passengers must wear seat belts at all times regardless of their age. Children under age 12 may not ride in the bed of a pickup truck in Hawaii.