Registering a car you bring to Hawaiʻi

You have 30 days after your car arrives to either register it in Hawaiʻi or get an out-of-state permit, which keeps your mainland plates valid until they expire. Either way, the car must pass a Hawaiʻi safety inspection first. On Oʻahu the permit is $5 at a satellite city hall, by appointment.

• Timeline: 30 days from the vehicle's arrival.
• Step 1: get a Hawaiʻi safety inspection at a certified station (many gas stations and repair shops). Bring your registration and proof of insurance.
• Step 2 (option A): get an out-of-state permit ($5 on Oʻahu) that lets you keep your mainland plates until their registration expires.
• Step 2 (option B): register the car in Hawaiʻi and get local plates. Bring the shipping bill of lading, title or lienholder info, out-of-state registration, safety check and Hawaiʻi insurance. Registration fees are based partly on vehicle weight.
• On Oʻahu, book at alohaq.org; neighbor islands use their county DMV offices.
• Safety checks are required every year for most cars (new cars get a longer first period).

Sources: City and County of Honolulu: out-of-state vehicle permits (May 23, 2023) · Hawaiʻi County: out-of-state permit

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