How to Register a Vehicle

Need to register your new vehicle? In Hawaii, different counties have different registration requirements. Listed below are the general demands that need to be met by law. Visit your nearest Hawaii Department of Transportation office in the county you reside and be sure to come equipped with:

• A notarized bill of sale with the odometer reading noted.
• The vehicle’s title is signed by the new and preceding owner (if there are any lienholders, they must also sign).
• Proof of a current auto insurance policy in your name.
• The vehicle’s current registration (fees may apply if the registration has expired or expires within 45 days of the sale).
• An Application for Registration of Motor Vehicle (online forms available for Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai County).
• Must be able to provide a certificate confirming a passed vehicle inspection.
• Necessary funds to pay the fees associated with registration.

(Reminder: Vehicle must be registered within 30 days of the sale; otherwise, charges will occur.)

If you plan to use your vehicle temporarily in the state of Hawaii and will not be around long enough to register, you must apply for an Out-of-State Permit.

Contact the vehicle registration offices in your county for any additional information:

• Honolulu – (808) 448-0312
• Hawaii – (808) 961-8351
• Kauai – (808) 241-4256
• Maui – (808) 270-7363