Hawaii License Plates: State Tag Types, Fees, Rules

Vehicle Registration & Tag Requirements in Hawaii

Operating a motor vehicle across the roadways of Hawaii requires current registration credentials and valid license plates issued in compliance with state administrative codes. Whether establishing permanent residency, purchasing an automobile through an authorized dealership or private seller, or completing annual validation sticker renewals, motorists must adhere to statutory requirements established by Hawaii Motor Vehicle Registration Division.

Display Mandate & Mounting Rules

Both front and rear license plates are required by state statute. Plates must be securely attached to the designated bracket locations at a height not less than 12 inches from the ground, fully illuminated at night by an operational white license plate lamp. Using tinted plate covers, smoked acrylic lenses, or reflective coating sprays is prohibited under state law and constitutes an equipment violation.

Plate Retention & Transfer Policy

Plates stay with the vehicle or owner as per state statutes. Upon selling, trading, or donating a vehicle, owners must file a formal notice of sale or transfer of liability with Hawaii Motor Vehicle Registration Division to remove their legal attachment and avoid liability for future parking citations, automated toll fees, or towing charges.

Hawaii County & Municipal Tag Directories

Select your county or municipal licensing branch below for local office hours, appointment systems, tax assessor information, and local fee schedules:

• Waimea HI Tag Office
• Wailuku HI Tag Office
• Wahiawa HI Tag Office
• Maui County HI Tag Office
• Laie HI Tag Office
• Lahaina HI Tag Office
• Kawaihae HI Tag Office
• Kauai County HI Tag Office
• Kapaa HI Tag Office
• Kaneohe HI Tag Office
• Kalawao County HI Tag Office
• Kahului HI Tag Office
• Honolulu HI Tag Office
• Honaunau HI Tag Office
• Hilo HI Tag Office
• Hawaii County HI Tag Office
• Hanalei HI Tag Office