Skip to main content

See all 50 states on one map and compare side-by-side. Start 7-day free trial — no card required

Back to map
Washingtonmoving toHawaii
Safety Inspection Only — mechanical check required

Hawaii

Days to Register
30 days
Registration Fee
$45 + weight tax by county
Title Transfer Fee
$5
Inspections Required
Safety inspection only
Min. Liability Insurance (BI/BI/PD, thousands)
20/40/10
License Plates
Front + Rear required

Deadlines — Days to Register and Transfer License

When moving from Washington to Hawaii, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency. You must also transfer your driver's license within 30 days. Plan to visit the Hawaii DMV promptly after your move.

What You'll Pay — Registration, Title, and Sales Tax

Registering your vehicle in Hawaii costs $45 + weight tax by county. Title transfer fee is $5 (title transfer is required). Vehicle sales/use tax is 4% GET (general excise tax). Budget for these costs before your move.

Inspections — Safety, Emissions, or None

Hawaii requires a safety inspection (Annual). Your vehicle must pass a mechanical safety check. No emissions test is required.

Insurance Minimums — Liability Coverage Required

Hawaii requires minimum liability insurance of 20/40/10 (bodily injury per person / per accident / property damage, in thousands). Your current Washington minimums are 25/50/10. You must update your insurance to meet Hawaii requirements before registering.

License Plates — Front, Rear, and Plate Transfer

Hawaii requires both front and rear plates (Washington requires front and rear). Surrender out-of-state plates; new HI plates issued. You will need to surrender your Washington plates and obtain new Hawaii plates.

Verify With the Official State DMV

For the most current requirements, fees, and forms, visit the official Hawaii DMV at https://www.honolulu.gov/csd. Requirements can change, so verify before your move.

Law last updated: 2025Row last reviewed: May 4, 2026

Registration fees, inspection requirements, and deadlines are subject to change. Always verify current requirements on the official state DMV website before your move. Data reflects 2025–2026 requirements where available.