Driver licensing and vehicle registration in Hawaii are handled at the county level, though all processes are overseen by the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HIDOT).
- Hawaii County: Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division
- Honolulu County: Motor Vehicle, Licensing, and Permits Division
- Maui County: Division of Motor Vehicles and Licensing
- Kauai County: Driver License and Motor Vehicles Division
The licensing requirements vary by county for new residents—contact your county’s department to inquire about any grace period before obtaining your Hawaii license and registration. Each county has safety inspection requirements for vehicles entering the islands, which are typically done during the time of registration.
The Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation is responsible for boater licensing and registration in the state.
Online and Third-Party Services
The counties of Hawaii have limited online services available:
- Hawaii County online services and online forms
- Honolulu County:
- Maui County online services
- Kauai County:
You can also access a copy of the Hawaii Driver’s Manual through the Department of Transportation.
Contact Information
County of Hawaii Vehicle Registration & Licensing Division
County directory (addresses and phone numbers)
Honolulu County Motor Vehicle, Licensing, and Permits Division
Mission Memorial Building
550 South King St.
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 768-9100
Maui County Division of Motor Vehicles and Licensing
110 Alaihi Street
Suite 101
Kahului, HI 96732
Phone: (808) 270-7363
County of Kauai
Department of Finance
Driver License Division
4444 Rice St., Ste A480
Lihue, HI 96766
Phone:
- Licensing: (808) 241-4242
- Motor vehicles: 808) 241-4256