If you are planning to own a scooter in Honolulu, Hawaii, this will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make! Why do we say this? Because scooters(referred to as mopeds interchangeably) are one of the best ways to travel around the island.
Since these vehicles are compact, you can take them anywhere you want, stop by beautiful scenery, and take in the beauty of the landscape around you. But here’s the catch! To enjoy this motorized bicycle, you need to follow some legalities.
Registration of your motor scooter is the first legal requirement you need to follow in order to ride freely on Hawaiian roads. You must register your scooter with the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Registration ensures that your vehicle is legal to operate and complies with state regulations.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps to help you know how to register a scooter in Hawaii.
Understanding Scooter and Moped Classification in Hawaii
Before we jump to the actual topic, let’s first understand what these scooters are. In Hawaii, it’s essential to know how your vehicle is classified because the registration requirements differ based on the type of vehicle.
Scooters, which are also called mopeds, are completely different from those classified as motor scooters. Generally, the state classifies these vehicles into two categories:
Mopeds: These have a smaller engine size of less than 50cc. Mostly, you’ll find mopeds with an engine size of 49cc. These vehicles can go a maximum of 30mph. Mopeds are treated differently than motorcycles in terms of registration and operation.
Motorcycles and motor scooters: Both have engines of 50cc and more and exceed the speed limit of 30mph. Scooters with larger engines are classified as motorcycles and have stricter requirements, such as safety inspections and additional fees.
A Guide to Registering Your Scooter in Hawaii
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. Mopeds are registered with the County Director of Finance. HRS 249-14(a) provides that once registered, the registration decal shall be attached to the rear fender and will face rearward, as directed by HRS 249-14(b).
The certification label indicating compliance with all applicable FMVSS shall have been affixed by the manufacturer to the moped to complete the registration process. This is a federal requirement that ensures the vehicle complies with safety standards for running on public roads.
How is this registration done? Below, we’ve mentioned all the steps to register your scooter and ride your vehicle, exploring the scenic roads of Honolulu.
For New Scooters
When buying a new scooter on Oahu, the dealer typically handles the registration and licensing process. But if they fail to do so, follow these steps:
Visit Your Local DMV Office
Hawaii is big, and thus, there’s a local DMV for each island. Wherever you are, go to the local DMV of your county. There are 4 DMV offices on the island:
- Honolulu (Oahu)
- Maui County (Maui, Molokai, Lanai)
- Hawaii County (Big Island)
- Kauai County
Bring all your documents to your county’s DMV office. Some locations allow you to book appointments online to minimize wait times.
Pro Tip: Check the DMV website for downloadable registration forms. Completing them in advance can save you time.
Registration Done by the Dealer
When buying a moped, dealers will guide you in filling out the registration application. However, if the dealer is not a certified safety inspection station, they will direct you to follow further procedures.
In this case, the dealer will forward the documents and required fees to the city and county of Honolulu’s moped registration office.
At the time of purchase, the dealer will give you copies of the completed application and the Certificate of Inspection.
You must carry these documents with you every time you operate the moped until you receive your registration, license plate, and emblem sticker with a vehicle identification number (VID) in the mail.
Complete the Application Process
At the DMV, you’ll need to fill out a vehicle registration application. Provide accurate information, including:
- Your full name and address.
- Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN.
- Engine size and fuel type.
A DMV clerk will review your paperwork, verify your insurance coverage, and process your application.
Pay Registration Fees
The cost of registering a scooter in Hawaii depends on the vehicle’s classification and your county of residence. The moped or scooter registration fee initially is $32.50.
Some counties may also charge additional administrative fees or taxes, so check with your local DMV for the exact amount.
Get Your License Plate or Decal
A license plate or a decal sticker with your vehicle identification number is a must to show that your scooter has been registered. Once your application is approved and fees are paid, you’ll receive a decal that must be affixed to the rear fender. Make sure that the decal or plate is properly attached and is clearly visible to comply with scooter state laws.
Renewing Your Scooter Registration
If you already have a scooter and want to renew its registration, we’ve discussed the steps here. You must remember that its important to renew the registration of your scooter annually. If the registration fee is not paid before the expiration date, you will have to pay a penalty.
An annual mail renewal notice must be sent 45 days prior to the expiration date of the registration. However, even if you do not receive a notice, you are still obligated to renew your registration prior to the expiration date. A valid safety inspection must be on file with the DMV before you can renew.
You must abide by the following ways to renew your moped registration:
*To Get Your Registration Certificate and New Emblem Quickly
- Make use of a DMV Now Self-Service Kiosk on any of your local DMV.
- Book an appointment with AlohaQ to visit the Driver Licensing Center.
*To get your Registration Certificate and new emblem by mail.
- Stop by any Satellite City Hall on Oahu.
- Renew by mail by following the instructions sent with your renewal notice.
- Complete your renewal by your registration expiration date to avoid fines.
What About Motor Scooters?
Above, we’ve discussed the steps on how to go about the registration process for the moped/ scooter owners. But if you have a two-wheeler that’s above 50cc, the registration process will change.
For New Motor Vehicles
Motor vehicles, whether new or old, require registration with the state for a safe drive around the island.
Fill Out the Application for Registration (Form CS-L [MVR] 1)
- Fill out the form and sign it as the registered owner. It should also be countersigned by an authorized Oahu vehicle dealer. You can get this form online, from the seller, or at the Satellite City Hall.
- Provide a Current Hawaii Vehicle Inspection Certificate.
– If You Are an Active Duty Service Member and Not a Resident of Hawaii:
- You will need to submit the Non-Resident Certificate Form CS-L [MVR] 50. You may obtain this form at your military personnel office or unit.
-Pay the Required Fees:
The registration or Satellite City Hall personnel will calculate the fees charged based on the information submitted. Fees vary based on the vehicle’s weight and other factors. Expect to pay higher fees for larger scooters.
For Re-registration
If you want to renew the registration of your motor vehicle, there are four ways to do it (all the steps are for Honolulu DMV):
1. Hawaii DMV Now Kiosk
- Location: Inside, select Safeway and Foodland stores.
- Requirements: The City and County of Honolulu address must be valid, and no supplementary forms, such as a safety inspection certificate, location certificate, or CS-L [MV] 50 or 50A, are necessary.
- Payment: Acceptable through credit/debit cards- VISA, Mastercard, or Discover only, with a 2.5 percent service charge, including a $4 transaction fee.
- Result: Your new registration card and license plate emblem are printed on the spot.
2. By Mail
- Payment: Check or money order payable to “City and County of Honolulu.”
- Instructions: Follow the instructions on your renewal notice and mail it to:
Department of Customer Services
Division of Motor Vehicle, Licensing and Permits
P.O. Box 30320
Honolulu, HI 96820-0320
3. Online
- Needs: Same as at the kiosk—address must be accurate, no additional forms needed.
- Payment: Credit/debit cards (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover), 2.35% service fee.
- Result: Your new registration card and license plate emblem will be mailed within ten working days.
- Information & Renew: To register using Honolulu’s Online Vehicle Registration Renewal System.
4. In Person at Any Satellite City Hall
- Process: Express window transactions only.
- Payment: Cash, Check, money order, traveler’s check, or cashier’s check (returned checks incur a $25 fee), or credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover), with a 2.35% service fee.
- Fees: Based on vehicle weight and usage.
Documents Required for Scooter Registration
If you are confused about what documents you need to present at the time of registration, we’ve created the list so you don’t have to do the hard work of finding out.
For New Scooters
To get a new vehicle registration (for a previously unrestored or purchased and not as yet registered from another state), some of the needed documents are as follows:
- Manufacturer’s certificate, i.e., Manufacturer Certificate of Origin, Manufacturer Statement of Origin: The document must be signed and notarized by the dealer. If not notarized, you must provide a notarized bill of sale from the dealer. Every reassignment must be notarized or come with a notarized bill of sale.
- Safety Check Inspection: Failed inspection and tagged “for registration only.”
- Hawaiʻi Scaled Weight Certificate: Vehicle weight is not indicated in the MCO or MSO. A certified scaled weight is necessary.
- State of Hawaiʻi Form G-27 (If Applicable): Required when the vehicle’s year model is the prior year, the present year, or the following year.
*Attach any supporting documents as needed.
*The forms are downloadable from the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Taxation.
*Make sure you have all the documents and information you need to complete the registration process without delay.
For Old Scooters
If you want to re-register your vehicle, here are the documents you’ll need:
If your renewal notice indicates outstanding traffic violations, you must forward an Outstanding Violation Clearance Letter for the vehicle prior to processing your application.
Contact the Traffic Violation Bureau at one of the following locations:
- Hale Kaulike Courthouse, 777 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo
- Keahuolu Courthouse, 74-5451 Kamakaeha Avenue, Kailua-Kona
- Waimea Civic Center, 67-5187 Kamamalu Street, Kamuela
Additional Requirements
- If your renewal form indicates the need for a Hawai’i Certificate of Safety Inspection, provide a copy of the current certificate.
- If the safety inspection was obtained from the Department of Transportation office, submit the carbon copy or the original certificate as proof.
Additional Considerations for Scooter Owners in Hawaii
Have a scooter in Hawaii? Riding it mindlessly won’t help you. You need to know all the requirements needed to ride on the roads of Honolulu. Know all the basic requirements, abide by the state law, and ride carefree.
1. Licensing Requirements
To ride these vehicles, you must have a valid driver’s license. But both the vehicles have different requirements.
Mopeds: A standard driver’s license is all that is required.
Motorcycles: To do this, you’ll need a motorcycle endorsement on your license. To do this, you will have to pass a written test and a skills test.
2. Safety Equipment
Legally, a helmet is mandatory for riders below 18 years of age, but all riders should wear protective headgear for their safety.
3. Parking Rules
The parking laws for scooters and mopeds are different.
Mopeds: These can frequently be parked at bike racks or designated moped parking zones.
Motorcycle: A scooter, if it is classified as a motorcycle, has to obey the vehicle’s parking rules.
4. Insurance Coverage
Even mopeds require liability insurance in Hawaii. Compare insurance providers to determine which best meets your needs and budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Failing to register your vehicle can lead to serious issues. To ensure you stay compliant, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Not checking the vehicle classification: Misclassifying your scooter might lead to incorrect paperwork and delays.
Missing papers: All the required documents should be complete and accurate before visiting the DMV.
Failure to obtain insurance: All mopeds and scooters require insurance.
Failure to renew: Keep track of the renewal dates for the registration to avoid penalties.
FAQs
Where can I register my scooter?
You can register your scooter at a local Satellite City Hall or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in your area.
Can I ride my scooter before I receive the license plate?
No, you must complete the registration process and affix the license plate and registration decal to your scooter before operating it on public roads.
What if I purchased a used scooter?
For a used scooter, you must provide:
- The certificate of title signed by the previous owner.
- A safety inspection certificate.
- Any other documents required by your local DMV.
Conclusion
In Hawaii, registering a scooter is a great deal, as it allows you to legally operate it on the road without fear. While the process might appear overwhelming at first, but, when you chop down the process into smaller steps, it’s actually not that difficult. Just make sure to get your papers in order to have a complete understanding of the class of your scooter and compliance with the DMV requirements in Hawaii.
Once you have everything in place, you will be ready to enjoy the magnificent view of these islands upon ownership of your newly registered scooter. By the time you get your scooter’s registration in place, book a moped with us and start exploring the island in no time!