Official Hawaii Guide

Hawaii SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Hawaii state requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

Min. Liability
20/40/10
$20k BI / $40k Total / $10k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
Required for most major violations
Filing Fee
~$15 - $30
One-time administrative cost

How Hawaii SR-22 Filing Works

In Hawaii, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Hawaii Department of Transportation (DOT) and shared with your local county DMV. It provides legal proof that you carry the minimum liability coverage required by the state to restore your driving privileges.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in HI?

  • DUI / OVUII: Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (OVUII) is the most common reason for a mandate.
  • Driving Without Insurance: Failing to provide proof of valid liability insurance when requested by law enforcement.
  • At-Fault Accidents: Being involved in a serious accident while driving without insurance coverage.
  • Mandatory Revocation: Any court-ordered license revocation for criminal traffic offenses or excessive points.

Don't Own a Car in Hawaii?

You can still get reinstated! A Hawaii Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow. It satisfies the Hawaii state requirement and is typically the most affordable way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The HI Reinstatement Timeline

1

Check Eligibility

Contact your local County DMV (Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii, or Kauai) to verify your specific suspension details.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 20/40/10 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the state.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $50-$100) at your county's Motor Vehicle and Licensing office.

4

License Reissued

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving status is restored and you can drive legally.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in Hawaii:

First Offense

Mandatory Suspension

Court Fines

Up to $1,000 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Vehicle Impact

Possible Vehicle Forfeiture

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Hawaii Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Hawaii?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$30 to electronically file the certificate with the state. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a HI SR-22?
Yes. Your Hawaii SR-22 is valid proof of financial responsibility nationwide. However, you must maintain the Hawaii-specific limits (20/40/10).
What is the difference between SR-22 and regular insurance?
An SR-22 is not insurance; it is a certificate attached to your policy that notifies the state if your coverage is ever cancelled or suspended.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in HI?
Yes, Hawaii allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. This is the most affordable route to reinstatement for drivers who do not own a vehicle.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. Hawaii law requires insurers to notify the state immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an automatic re-suspension.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact your local county DMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.