Hawaii DMV:  Vehicle registration, titling, and licensing services are managed by the Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division within each county. These divisions handle all DMV-equivalent services, including vehicle registration, title issuance, and license plate distribution.

The key divisions are:

• the Division of Motor Vehicles, Licensing and Permits – City and County of Honolulu (DMVLP)
• the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division – County of Hawaiʻi
• the Motor Vehicle & Licensing Division – County of Maui
• the Motor Vehicle Registration division in the County of Kauaʻi

Display Requirements: Hawaii law mandates that vehicles display both front and rear license plates. Plates must be clearly visible and free from obstructions. Any frame or cover should not interfere with the legibility of the plate’s numbers and letters.
Plate Design and Format: Standard Hawaii plates feature a rainbow design on a white background with black lettering, typically following a serial format of three letters followed by three numbers (e.g., ABC 123). Special plates, including personalized and organizational options, are available with varying details by county. License plate sizes are 12″ x 6″ for automobiles and commercial vehicles, and 7″ x 4″ for motorcycles and other vehicle types.  

Vehicle registration and renewal: In Hawaii, this involves several steps, varying by county. Requirements include the old vehicle title signed by the owner and lienholders, previous registration, odometer disclosure for newer vehicles, a bill of sale, valid identification for buyer and seller, and a safety inspection certificate. After gathering the necessary documents, visit your local county office to pay the required fees.

Replacing License Plates: Replacement plates can be requested for lost, stolen, or damaged plates at your county’s motor vehicle office. Required documents include proof of identity and vehicle registration, along with applicable fees.