Hawaiʻi Vehicle Safety Check: What You Need to Know

A vehicle safety check (also called a safety inspection) is a mandatory inspection required by the State of Hawaiʻi to ensure vehicles meet minimum safety standards.

Safety checks are performed only by state-certified inspection stations and result in an official safety inspection sticker being issued if your vehicle passes.

A safety check is not the same as a courtesy inspection or general vehicle inspection.

Most passenger vehicles in Hawaiʻi must complete a safety inspection:

• Once every year for personal vehicles

• Every 6 months for certain commercial vehicles

• At registration renewal, if the safety check is expired

Motorcycles, trailers, and commercial vehicles may have different requirements.

During a safety check, inspectors examine specific items required by state regulations. Common inspection areas include:

Exterior & Visibility

• Headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals

• Windshield condition (no unsafe cracks)

• Wipers and washer system

• Mirrors

Tires & Wheels

• Tire tread depth

• Tire condition (no exposed cords or damage)

• Wheel security

Brakes & Suspension

• Brake system operation

• Parking brake

• Suspension components (visual check)

Interior & Safety Equipment

• Seat belts

• Horn

• Dashboard warning lights

• Steering components

Vehicle Identification

• VIN verification

• License plates and registration compliance

Many safety check failures are minor and preventable. Common issues include:

• Worn or bald tires

• Burned-out lights or signals

• Cracked windshields

• Worn windshield wipers

• Brake issues

• Check engine or warning lights illuminated

• Missing mirrors or license plates

Preparing ahead of time can help avoid a reinspection.

If your vehicle does not pass inspection:

1. The inspector will explain the reason(s) for failure

2. You’ll be given time to make repairs

3. You may return for a reinspection

Reinspection policies and fees may vary by station.

Safety Check (Official):

• Required by law

• Performed by certified stations

• Results in an official sticker

• Logged into the state system

Courtesy or Pre-Inspection:

• Optional

• Not official

• No sticker issued

• Used to identify issues before a safety check

Many drivers choose a courtesy inspection first to reduce the chance of failure.

This depends on the station. Some locations accept walk-ins, while others require appointments — especially during peak times or renewal periods.

It’s always best to call ahead before visiting.

Safety inspection fees are set by the State of Hawaiʻi, meaning prices are generally consistent across certified stations. Fees may vary by vehicle type (passenger car, motorcycle, trailer, commercial vehicle).

Before heading to a station, consider checking:

• All exterior lights

• Tire tread and pressure

• Windshield and wipers

• Dashboard warning lights

• Registration and insurance documents

A few minutes of preparation can save time and money.

Many safety check failures are minor and preventable. Common issues include:

• Worn or bald tires

• Burned-out lights or signals

• Cracked windshields

• Worn windshield wipers

• Brake issues

• Check engine or warning lights illuminated

• Missing mirrors or license plates

Preparing ahead of time can help avoid a reinspection.

Many safety check failures are minor and preventable. Common issues include:

• Worn or bald tires

• Burned-out lights or signals

• Cracked windshields

• Worn windshield wipers

• Brake issues

• Check engine or warning lights illuminated

• Missing mirrors or license plates

Preparing ahead of time can help avoid a reinspection.