Personalized License Plates in Hawaii

What Are Personalized License Plates In Hawaii?

Personalized license plates in Hawaii allow vehicle owners to customize their vehicle registration plates with unique letter and number combinations. These plates provide an opportunity for individuals to express personal interests, affiliations, or creativity through their vehicle's identification.

Are Personalized License Plate Legal In Hawaii?

Yes, personalized license plates are legal in Hawaii. The state permits vehicle owners to apply for and use personalized plates, provided they adhere to the guidelines and regulations set forth by the Department of Customer Services (City and County of Honolulu), Vehicle Registration & Licensing Division (County of Hawaii), Motor Vehicle & Licensing Division (County of Maui) , Department of Finance (County of Kauai).

These regulations ensure that the content on the plates is appropriate and does not violate any state laws or public decency.

How Can I Get a Personalized License Plate In Hawaii?

1. How to obtain a personalized license plate in Hawaii, vehicle owners must follow a specific application process:
2. Eligibility: Ensure that your vehicle is registered in Hawaii and that you are the registered owner.
3. Application Form: Complete the personalized license plate application form, which can be obtained from the Department of Customer Services(City and County of Honolulu), Vehicle Registration & Licensing Division(County of Hawaii), Motor Vehicle & Licensing Division (County of Maui) ,Department of Finance (County of Kauai) or downloaded from their official website.
4. Plate Selection: Choose a desired combination of letters and numbers for your plate. The combination must comply with state guidelines and be available.
5. Submission: Submit the completed application form along with the required fee to the local offices in your County.
6. Approval: Wait for to review and approve your application. If approved, you will be notified when your personalized plate is ready for pickup.

How Much Does It Cost For a Personalized License Plate In Hawaii?

The cost of obtaining a personalized license plate in Hawaii includes several components:

• Initial Application Fee
• Annual Renewal Fee
• Replacement Fee (if the plate is lost, stolen, or damaged)

These fees are in addition to the standard vehicle registration fees. It is important to note that fees are subject to change, and applicants should verify the current rates :

• Honolulu County: Department of Customer Services. Phone: (808)-768-4325
• Hawaii County: Visit the Vehicle Registration & Licensing Division.Phone: (808)- 961-8351
• Maui County: Motor Vehicle & Licensing Division. Phone: (808) 270-7363
• Kauai County: Visit the Kauai County Finance Department. Phone: (808)-241-4242

How Long Does It Take To Get a Personalized License Plate In Hawaii?

The processing time for personalized license plates in Hawaii can vary. Generally, it takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks from the time the application is submitted until the plates are ready for pickup. Applicants will be notified by the DMV when their plates are available. Delays may occur during peak application periods or if additional review of the plate content is required.

What Types Of Personalized License Plates Are Available In Hawaii?

Hawaii offers several types of personalized license plates, including:

• Standard Personalized Plates: Custom combinations of letters and numbers.
• Specialty Plates: Plates that support specific causes or organizations, such as environmental conservation or university affiliations.
• Military Plates: Available to active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel, featuring branch-specific designs.

Each type of plate may have specific eligibility requirements and additional fees.

What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed On Personalized License Plate In Hawaii?

Hawaii enforces strict guidelines regarding the content that can be displayed on personalized license plates. Prohibited content includes:

• Offensive Language: Any language that is considered vulgar, obscene, or profane.
• Hate Speech: Content that promotes discrimination or hatred against any group or individual.
• Trademarked Material: Use of registered trademarks or copyrighted material without permission.
• Misleading Content: Combinations that could be confused with official government or emergency vehicle plates.

Applications containing prohibited content will be denied, and the applicant will be required to select an alternative combination.

Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate In Hawaii?

In Hawaii, personalized license plates are considered a privilege granted to the vehicle owner and are not transferable. Therefore, they cannot be sold or transferred to another person. If a vehicle owner wishes to relinquish their personalized plate, they must return it to the appropriate county department. The new vehicle owner must apply for their own personalized plate if they so desire.