Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in Hawaii?
Yes, a safety inspection is required to renew your vehicle registration in Hawaii. As mandated by Hawaii Administrative Rules Chapter 19-133.2, all vehicles must pass an annual safety inspection before registration renewal can be completed. Unlike some states, Hawaii does not require emissions testing for renewal, making the safety inspection the sole mandatory technical assessment.
Hawaii uses a metal license plate with registration emblems affixed to the upper right portion of the rear plate. Registrations expire annually and must be renewed in the county where the vehicle is registered. You can complete renewal at county offices, through online services, at self-service kiosks, or by mail, where available—but the safety inspection certificate must be obtained first.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
New vehicles are exempt from safety inspection requirements for the first year of registration. According to HAR §19-133.2-3, new non-motor carrier vehicles shall be inspected on or before the date they are first sold and then every twelve months, two years after the date they are first sold.
Certain commercial vehicles and motor carrier vehicles follow different inspection schedules as outlined in Hawaii Administrative Rules Chapter 19-142. Vehicles temporarily out of state may qualify for extensions under specific circumstances by submitting an Out-of-State Permit application. Active-duty military personnel stationed outside Hawaii may also be eligible for special provisions. Contact your county motor vehicle office for details about exemptions that may apply to your situation.
Contact Information for Tag Services
City and County of Honolulu – Division of Motor Vehicles
925 Dillingham Boulevard, #101, Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: (808) 768-4325
Official Website: Honolulu Motor Vehicles
County of Hawaii – Vehicle Registration & Licensing
101 Pauahi Street, Suite #5, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 961-8351
Official Website: Hawaii County VRL
County of Maui – Motor Vehicle & Licensing
200 South High Street, Kalana O Maui Building, Wailuku, HI 96793
Phone: (808) 270-7363
Official Website: Maui County Motor Vehicles
County of Kauai – Division of Motor Vehicles
4444 Rice Street, Suite #466, Lihue, HI 96766
Phone: (808) 241-4256
Official Website: Kauai County DMV
