Hawaii DMV Services

1. When You Apply

• You must complete the ownership and registration transfer within 30 days of buying or acquiring the vehicle to avoid penalties and delinquent taxes.

2. Proof of Ownership (Title Requirements)

New Vehicle (Dealer Purchase)

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO/MSO)
  – Provided by the dealer or manufacturer.
  – It may need to be notarized by the dealer; if not, a notarized bill of sale can be used.
• Dealers usually prepare title paperwork for new car purchases.

Used Vehicle (Private Sale)

• Current title properly assigned to you
  – The seller must complete the assignment section with sale price, date, odometer reading, signatures of seller and buyer.
• Bill of sale is recommended (especially if the title doesn’t show odometer or sale details).

Out‑of‑State Vehicles

• Present the out‑of‑state title (signed by the seller).
• If the vehicle was shipped to Hawaii, provide a shipping receipt or bill of lading or a Vehicle Arrival Certification (Form CS‑L(MVR) 199).

3. Registration Requirements

Once you’ve applied for the title (or if the title is already in your name), you’ll also complete registration at the same county office.

Documents Needed to Register

Application for Registration of Motor Vehicle (county form)
Current Hawaii vehicle title (in your name after transfer)
Safety inspection certificate (see below)
Proof of insurance (Hawaii auto liability coverage)
Vehicle weight certificate (if not listed on title/MCO; may need certified scale weight)

Safety Inspection

• Hawaii requires a safety inspection certificate before you can register a vehicle. For most used cars, this inspection must be completed before registration.
• New vehicles get an initial inspection valid longer (e.g., two years) before annual renewals.
• The inspection checks brakes, lights, steering, mirrors, seat belts, etc.

Proof of Insurance

• Valid Hawaii auto liability insurance before registering your vehicle. The insurance policy must meet Hawaii’s minimum coverage requirements.

4. Fees, Taxes & Penalties

• Title and registration fees vary by county and vehicle type.
• If you fail to complete the title/registration within 30 days, counties charge a late fee (e.g., $50) plus any delinquent registration taxes.
• You may also owe Motor Vehicle Use Tax (Form G‑27) on out‑of‑state purchases.

5. Deadlines

• Title and/or register within 30 days of purchase or transfer to avoid penalties and back taxes.
• Registrations must be renewed annually thereafter with a valid safety inspection and insurance.

6. Special Situations

Moving to Hawaii

If you bring a car from another state:

• You must register the vehicle in Hawaii within 30 days of establishing residency.
• Bring the out‑of‑state title, current registration, safety inspection certificate, shipping documents, and use tax form.

7. Quick Checklist

To Title & Register a New or Used Car in Hawaii:
Properly assigned title or MCO for new vehicles
Bill of sale for private purchases (recommended)
Valid Hawaii auto insurance
Safety inspection certificate
Application for Registration (county form)
Weight certification (if required)
Payment for title/registration fees and any use tax
Submit everything at your county Motor Vehicle Registration office within 30 days of purchase or arrival in Hawaii.