Hawaii Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Hawaii requires all drivers to carry liability insurance: $20,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 total per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
Driving without insurance in Hawaii can result in license suspension, fines up to $1,000, and vehicle impoundment. Getting caught uninsured is serious, so do not delay purchasing coverage.
You must show proof of insurance when pulled over or registering your vehicle with the Hawaii DMV.
Can Immigrants Get a Driver License in Hawaii?
Hawaii does NOT currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a standard driver license without proof of lawful presence or a valid visa.
If you have a visa, passport, or work authorization, the Hawaii DMV will issue you a license. You do not need an SSN—you can use an ITIN instead.
If you are undocumented, you cannot legally drive in Hawaii. This is important: buying insurance without a license is difficult but possible with some insurers. Contact local immigrant advocacy groups for alternatives.
Best Insurance Options for Immigrants in Hawaii
Several national insurers accept ITIN numbers instead of SSN in Hawaii. These include GEICO, State Farm, Allstate, and Progressive. Rates vary widely—always get multiple quotes to compare prices.
You will need: valid ID (passport or foreign license), proof of residency in Hawaii, vehicle registration, and your ITIN or tax ID number.
Some local Hawaii insurers may also work with immigrant drivers. Call ahead and ask directly: "Do you accept ITIN numbers?" Be honest about your situation.
Tips for Immigrant Drivers in Hawaii
Hawaii is an island state—make sure your insurance covers both island travel and potential transport of your vehicle between islands.
Your insurance information is protected by federal privacy law (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act). Buying insurance does NOT give immigration authorities your details.
Keep digital AND physical copies of your insurance card. Visit the Hawaii DMV website or call 808-532-4961 for questions about registration and licensing.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $10,000 | Hawaii law requirement |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $20,000 | Hawaii law requirement |
| Property Damage | $10,000 | Hawaii law requirement |
| Uninsured Motorist (BI per person) | $10,000 | Required in Hawaii |
| Uninsured Motorist (BI per accident) | $20,000 | Required in Hawaii |
| Uninsured Motorist (PD) | $3,500 | Required in Hawaii |
| Medical Payments (PIP) | Not required | Optional coverage |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Many Hawaii insurers accept ITIN. Insurance companies do not report you to ICE. Get quotes from multiple carriers to find who accepts ITIN.
No. Hawaii does not issue driver licenses to undocumented immigrants. You need proof of legal residency or citizenship. Check Hawaii DMV for current requirements.
Hawaii requires 20/40/10: $20,000 bodily injury per person, $40,000 per accident, $10,000 property damage. Rates vary by insurer and profile. Get quotes online.
State Farm, Geico, Progressive, and local carriers like Kauai Insurance often work with ITIN holders. Call directly and ask if they accept ITIN. Rates vary.
Yes, temporarily. Most insurers accept a valid foreign license plus passport for 30 days. After that, you need a Hawaii license. Check with your insurer on their exact policy.