Hawaii License Plate Lookup /DMV Locations

Hawaii County DMV Locations

What Does DMV Stand for in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, car registrations and driver's licenses are handled by each county government, not by a statewide Department of Motor Vehicles. For vehicle registration or to apply for or renew a driver's license, residents must contact their specific county's vehicle registration and licensing department. For instance, in Honolulu, inquiries for driver licensing and motor vehicle registration can be directed to specific phone numbers provided by the city's Department of Customer Services. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Kauai County is responsible for various vehicle and driver licensing services within the county. To access motor vehicle licensing services in Maui County, you can visit the Motor Vehicle & Licensing Division's official website. Similarly, Hawaii County offers vehicle registration and licensing services through its County of Hawaii Vehicle Registration & Licensing. This decentralized approach ensures local offices can address their communities' specific needs and regulations.

What is Required for Hawaii Car Registration?

To register a vehicle in Hawaii, residents must complete several steps and provide various documents. These requirements are generally consistent across all counties, but it's advisable to check with local offices for any specific county variations.

Completed Application for Registration of Motor Vehicle: Available at county offices or online on county websites.
Proof of Vehicle Ownership: Typically, this is the vehicle title or bill of sale.
Valid Hawaii Vehicle Inspection: Vehicles must pass a safety inspection.
Proof of Hawaii Insurance: Must be compliant with state insurance requirements.
Payment of Applicable Fees: These vary by county and vehicle type.

How Much is Vehicle Registration in Hawaii?

The cost of vehicle registration in Hawaii can vary by county and depends on the type of vehicle, its weight, and the length of the registration period. Registration fees typically include a base fee, additional charges based on the vehicle's weight, and a county surcharge.

Base Registration Fee: Varies by county.
Weight Tax: Calculated based on the vehicle's weight.
County Surcharge: Specific to each county.
State Fee: This includes a state beautification fee and other statutory fees.

How to Get a Renewal Vehicle Registration in Hawaii?

Renewing vehicle registration in Hawaii is required annually and can usually be done online, by mail, or in person at a county office. The process involves:

Completion of a Renewal Application: Provided by the county or accessible online.
Payment of Renewal Fees: Including registration fees, weight tax, and any applicable surcharges.
Providing Proof of Passed Vehicle Inspection: Must be current at the time of renewal.

What Do I Need to Get a Driver's License in Hawaii?

Obtaining a driver's license in Hawaii requires several documents to prove identity, legal presence, and residency. The process is generally consistent across counties, with specific steps to be completed at local offices:

Proof of Name and Date of Birth: Such as a birth certificate or passport.
Social Security Number: Must be verifiable.
Proof of Hawaii Residency: Including two different documents like utility bills or lease agreements.
Completion of a Vision Test: Conducted at the DMV office.
Passing a Written Test and Road Test Administered by the county office.

Can I Get My Hawaii Driver's License Online?

Yes, in some cases, Hawaii allows specific driver's license transactions to be completed online, including renewals and duplicates. However, first-time applicants and those requiring a new photograph or updated tests must visit a local office in person.

How Do I Get a Replacement Driver's License in Hawaii?

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in Hawaii, residents need to:

Visit Their Local County Office: Online services may be available for simple duplicates.
Provide Identification: Such as a passport or birth certificate.
Pay the Replacement Fee: Fees vary by county but are generally nominal.

How Do I Get a Renewed Driver's License in Hawaii?

Renewing a driver's license in Hawaii typically requires:

Online Renewal Eligibility: For those who meet specific criteria, such as having a recent photo on file.
In-Person Renewal: Necessary for updating tests or photographs.
Payment of Renewal Fees: Varies by county and the type of license.