Hawaii Temporary License Plate
What Is a Temporary License Plate in Hawaii?
A temporary license plate in Hawaii is a provisional registration for newly purchased vehicles or vehicles undergoing registration renewal or transfer that have yet to receive their permanent plates. This allows the car to be legally driven while the permanent registration is processed.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Hawaii?
To obtain a temporary license plate in Hawaii, follow these steps:
- Ensure your vehicle has passed the required safety inspection.
- Visit your county vehicle registration office with the necessary documentation.
- Apply for a temporary plate if your permanent plates are not immediately available.
Required documents typically include:
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Proof of insurance
- Valid identification
Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Hawaii?
- Temporary license plates can be obtained at any county vehicle registration office. 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 Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Hawaii?
The cost of a temporary license plate in Hawaii varies depending on the county where the vehicle is being registered. Generally, the fee for a temporary license plate or a certificate of registration, which can act as a temporary permit in some contexts, is minimal. For instance, in Honolulu, the fee for a registration certificate is $7. However, confirming the specific fees with the local vehicle registration office in the county where you need the temporary plate is essential, as rates can differ and additional transaction fees may apply, such as credit/debit card service fees or remote transaction fees.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Hawaii?
While some preliminary steps can be initiated online, such as scheduling appointments or completing forms, the actual issuance of a temporary license plate typically requires a visit to a local DMV office to present documents and receive the plate.
What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Hawaii?
Hawaii offers several types of temporary plates based on the vehicle's status, including plates for vehicles awaiting permanent registration, dealership plates for cars in transit, and temporary plates for vehicles under inspection.
When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, temporary license plates are required when a vehicle is purchased from a dealer, and permanent plates are only available after some time. This allows the new owner to drive the car while the registration process is completed legally. Dealers issue these temporary plates to ensure compliance with state laws prohibiting driving a car without proper registration.
County vehicle registration offices also issue temporary plates in scenarios such as vehicle importation to the state or when permanent plates are being replaced due to loss or damage. The temporary plates typically display a registration number and must be replaced with permanent plates within a specific timeframe, usually before the temporary plates expire.
Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in Hawaii?
Yes, you can get insurance on a car with temporary plates in Hawaii. Hawaii state laws require that every vehicle, whether it has permanent or temporary plates, must be insured. The process includes providing proof of insurance during the safety inspection and registration processes. This ensures that all vehicles on the road meet the state's mandatory insurance coverage requirements regardless of their registration status.
What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Hawaii?
To get a temporary tag in Hawaii, you will need:
- A valid safety inspection certificate
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle ownership documents
- A valid ID
How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Hawaii?
Temporary license plates in Hawaii are typically valid for 30 to 60 days, giving vehicle owners ample time to complete the registration process or receive their permanent plates.
Can I Drive on an Expired Temp Temporary License Plate in Hawaii?
No, you cannot legally drive on an expired temporary license plate in Hawaii. Driving with an expired temporary plate is subject to fines, as Hawaii law mandates that all vehicles must have valid registration when operating on public roads. Specifically, anyone operating a car with an expired temporary number plate can be fined up to $500. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's registration is updated before the temporary plate expires to avoid legal issues and potential fines