Smog Check in Hawaii

SUMMARY: Hawaii Vehicle Safety Inspections

In Hawaii, all vehicles must undergo a safety inspection periodically to remain registered. If you're a new resident you must have your out-of-state vehicle inspected prior to registering it in HI. Used vehicles must be inspected annually and new vehicles must be inspected 2 years after the initial safety inspection.

Continue reading this page to learn more about the vehicle safety inspection requirements in Hawaii.

NOTE: There are currently no smog check requirements in Hawaii.

New to Hawaii?

If you're bringing your vehicle from out of state to Hawaii, you'll need to have it registered with your county DMV office. In addition to other documents, you'll need to provide a safety inspection certificate.

Visit our Car Registration in Hawaii page for a complete list of requirements.

Car Inspection Requirement

In Hawaii, all vehicles must undergo periodic safety inspections:

  • Used vehicles: annually.
  • New vehicles: 2 years after the initial inspection, and then annually after that.
As of 2017, this includes mopeds. Counties have until December 31, 2017 to implement this new requirement. For more info contact HDOT or your local licensing agency:

You will need to have your vehicle inspected in order to:

  • Register your vehicle.
  • Renew your registration.
  • Transfer your out-of-state vehicle registration to Hawaii.

Complete a Safety Inspection in HI

To have your vehicle safety inspected in Hawaii, take it to an authorized service station, auto repair shop, or authorized dealership. A certified inspector will check for any failures in your vehicle, including the following parts:

  • Steering component.
  • Fuel system.
  • Headlamps.
  • Mirrors.
  • Speedometer.
  • Odometer.
  • Doors.
  • Seat belts.

In addition to checking the mechanical components of your vehicle, the safety inspector will also confirm that you have:

  • No-fault insurance coverage.
  • A valid registration card.
  • Valid license plates (not damaged or illegible).

Remember to bring your Hawaii insurance card and registration card with you to the inspection station. The minimum fee for a safety inspection, set by the Department of Transportation, is $19.19.

NOTE: If you have a reconstructed vehicle, you will need to provide a bill of sale or receipt for any parts that have been added.

Passing the Safety Inspection

If your vehicle passes the safety inspection, a sticker will be affixed to your vehicle and you will be given hard copy inspection certificates.

Your safety inspection information will also be updated in the Hawaii motor vehicle database available for DMV staff to search. (May take up to 4 months to be entered into the system).

NOTE: You should still bring your safety inspection certificate to the HI DMV office when you register your vehicle or renew your registration, in case the database has not been updated.

Failed HI Safety Inspections

If the safety inspector finds defects within your vehicle, you will need to have repairs made and have it re-inspected.

The HI safety inspector will provide you with a list of defects that need to be fixed.

Hawaii Incentives for Eco-Friendly Driving

Although Hawaii does not require emissions tests, you still might be able to take advantage of other perks specific to eco-friendly driving such as tax breaks and auto insurance discounts. Learn more on our page on green driver incentives.

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