Moving to Hawaiʻi: first 30 days checklist

The key tasks for new residents in roughly the order they come up: transfer your driver's license within 30 days of becoming a resident, register or permit your car within 30 days of its arrival, sign up for emergency alerts, set up utilities, enroll keiki in school and register to vote. Each county runs its own DMV, so book appointments early.

• Driver's license: transfer within 30 days of establishing residency (renting a home, taking a job here, enrolling kids or registering to vote all count). You'll take the written test, not a road test. See the driver's license entry.
• Car: within 30 days of the car's arrival, register it in Hawaiʻi or get an out-of-state permit; either needs a Hawaiʻi safety check first.
• Pets: start the rabies paperwork at least 4 months before you fly, or your pet may face up to 120 days of quarantine.
• Emergency: sign up for your county's alerts (for example HNL.INFO on Oʻahu) and build a 14-day supply kit.
• Utilities: electricity is the big bill here; ask about solar, ceiling fans and time-of-use rates.
• School: enroll at the home school for your address; kids need a Hawaiʻi TB clearance and a recent physical.
• Kamaʻāina rates: many attractions, parks and shops give resident discounts once you have a Hawaiʻi ID.
• Register to vote: Hawaiʻi votes entirely by mail; register online with the Office of Elections once you have a Hawaiʻi ID.

Sources: How to Live in Hawaiʻi: Hawaiʻi driver license and state ID · City and County of Honolulu: out-of-state vehicle permits

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