How to Renew Motor Vehicle Registration in Hawaii?
Vehicle registration renewal is required for all Hawaii residents to maintain legal driving privileges. Hawaii does not have a statewide Department of Motor Vehicles, as vehicle registration is managed by each county government. The Hawaii Department of Transportation provides coordination and oversight for statewide transportation policies and safety requirements.
Hawaii Vehicle Registration Renewal Requirements
Essential Documentation and Requirements
Hawaii vehicle owners must satisfy the following requirements when renewing their registration:
- Valid Vehicle Insurance: Proof of current motor vehicle insurance meeting Hawaii minimum liability requirements
- Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (PMVI): Current Hawaii Certificate of Safety Inspection is required for all vehicles
- Registration Documents: Renewal application form mailed by county or current Certificate of Registration
- Government-Issued Photo ID: Current Hawaii driver's license or state-issued identification card
- Traffic Violations Clearance: Written clearance from Traffic Violations Bureau if outstanding violations exist
Safety Inspection Requirements
All motor vehicles operated on Hawaii public highways must have an official Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (PMVI) at least once annually. Safety inspections are conducted at authorized inspection stations and include examination of:
- Braking systems and brake lights
- Steering and suspension components
- Tires and wheels for proper tread depth and condition
- Lighting systems including headlights, taillights, and turn signals
- Windshield, mirrors, and visibility equipment
- Seat belts and safety restraint systems
- Exhaust system and emissions components
- Horn and warning devices
Important Update: Effective July 1, 2025, vehicle safety inspection fees increased to $25.75 for automobiles and trucks, and $17.75 for motorcycles and trailers.
Renewal Timeline and Grace Period
- Early Renewal: Renewal application forms are mailed approximately 45 days before expiration date
- Kiosk Renewals: Available at Hawaii DMV Now kiosks up to 10 months after expiration (late fees apply)
- Mail-In Processing: Must be postmarked no later than 10 working days before expiration date
- New Residents: Must register vehicles within 30 days of establishing Hawaii residency
How Much Is Car Registration Renewal in Hawaii in 2025
2025 Hawaii Vehicle Registration Fee Schedule
Vehicle registration fees in Hawaii vary by county and are composed of multiple components including state fees, county fees, and weight taxes:
| Fee Component | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| State Registration Fee | $45 | Standard state processing fee |
| County Registration Fee | $12-$20 | Varies by county |
| Transfer Fee | $5 | Processing fee for transfers |
| Weight Tax | Variable | Based on vehicle weight and county |
County-Specific Registration Fees
| County | Annual Registration Fee | Weight Tax Structure |
|---|---|---|
| City and County of Honolulu | $20 | Based on vehicle weight and value |
| Hawaii County | $27.50 | Passenger vehicles: 1.25¢ per lb., $12 minimum |
| Maui County | Variable | Weight-based county ordinance |
| Kauai County | Variable | Weight-based county ordinance |
Electric Vehicle Registration Fees
Hawaii implements special registration fees for electric and alternative fuel vehicles:
| Vehicle Type | Annual Fee | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Electric vehicles (standard fee) | $50 | Current requirement |
| Road Usage Charge (per-mile option) | $8 per 1,000 miles (capped at $50) | July 1, 2025 |
| Hybrid vehicles | $15 | Additional surcharge |
Hawaii Road Usage Charge (HiRUC): Beginning July 1, 2025, electric vehicle owners can choose between paying a $50 annual flat fee or a per-mile road usage charge of $8 per 1,000 miles driven (capped at $50 annually). This program will become mandatory for all electric vehicles by 2028.
Additional Mandatory Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Inspection Fee | $25.75 | Automobiles and trucks (as of July 1, 2025) |
| Motorcycle/Trailer Inspection Fee | $17.75 | as of July 1, 2025 |
| Duplicate Registration Fee | $5 | Replacement certificate |
| U-Drive Vehicle Fee | $1 | Per certificate of registration |
Late Registration Penalties
Late registration penalties vary by county and vehicle type:
| County | Passenger Vehicle Penalty | Commercial Vehicle Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii County | $16 per year ($8 county + $8 state) | $40 per year ($20 county + $20 state) |
| Other Counties | Variable penalty structure | Contact county office for specific rates |
How To Renew Vehicle Registration Online in Hawaii
Online Renewal Platforms
Hawaii offers multiple online renewal options through county-specific platforms:
Statewide Portal: The Hawaii Motor Vehicle Registration Renewal website provides access to all county renewal systems. Vehicle owners must select their county to access the appropriate renewal platform.
County-Specific Systems:
Hawaii DMV Now Kiosks
Self-service kiosks are available at select Safeway and Foodland stores statewide. Kiosk services include:
- Vehicle registration renewal up to 10 months after expiration
- Barcode scanning from renewal postcards
- Manual entry using license plate number and vehicle type
- Credit card payment processing (2.5% processing fee applies)
Kiosk Convenience Fees:
- City and County of Honolulu: $4 per renewed vehicle + 2.5% credit card fee
- Hawaii County: No fee per renewed vehicle + 2.5% credit card fee
- Kauai County: $4 per renewed vehicle + 2.5% credit card fee
- Maui County: Variable fee structure
Online Renewal Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Registration must not be expired for more than the allowable timeframe
- Current Hawaii safety inspection certificate must be valid
- No outstanding traffic violations or required clearances
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Vehicle license plate number
- Last four digits of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Current safety inspection certificate information
- Payment method (credit or debit card)
Step 3: Complete Application
- Access county-specific online renewal portal
- Enter vehicle identification and registration information
- Verify safety inspection status
- Review total fees and submit payment
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
- Print confirmation receipt for temporary use
- New registration certificate with emblem mailed within 7-10 business days
Alternative Renewal Methods
Mail-In Renewal
Submit the following documents to your county motor vehicle office:
- Completed renewal application form or current Certificate of Registration
- Copy of current Vehicle Inspection Certificate (if noted on renewal form)
- Traffic Violations Bureau clearance (if required)
- Payment made payable to "County Director of Finance"
In-Person Renewal
Visit your county motor vehicle office with:
- Renewal application form or current Certificate of Registration
- Current Hawaii safety inspection certificate
- Government-issued photo identification
- Payment for all applicable fees
Contact Information
City and County of Honolulu Department of Customer Services
1000 Uluohia Street, Kapolei, HI 96707
Phone: (808) 768-4386
Official Website: Department of Customer Services
Hawaii County Vehicle Registration & Licensing
25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 961-8351
Official Website: Hawaii County VRL
Maui County Department of Finance
200 South High Street, Wailuku, HI 96793
Phone: (808) 270-7363
Official Website: Maui County
Kauai County Department of Finance
4444 Rice Street, Suite 454, Lihue, HI 96766
Phone: (808) 241-4242
Official Website: Kauai County
