Steve HoldenIf you own or plan on operating an ATV in Hawaii, it’s important you know the laws and regulations that govern its registration and use. Failure to comply with state laws can result in hefty fines, your ATV being impounded, or in some circumstances jail time.
Depending where you search, many different opinions pop up about the ATV laws in Hawaii and it’s hard to discern fact from fiction. I’ve heard countless stories from friends who knew a guy who’s cousin once got ticketed for “enter crazy reason here”. More often than not, these stories are based on an element of truth which has been bent or exaggerated as its passed between people.
We make it easier. Below you’ll find the Hawaii ATV Laws which every owner and operator should be aware of. These are pulled directly from Hawaii Codes and Statutes, so you know you are getting the answer directly from the source. In most cases, we have crossed referenced these laws with local lawyers and officers to ensure their accuracy.
These rules should get you started on the right (and legal) path but we always suggest you check with the local authorities before operating an ATV. Most states have provisions which allow cities and counties to set their own ATV regulations. Not only can they help you operate it legally, but also safely.
Hawaii ATV Ownership and Registration
The following laws govern how ATV ownership and transfer must be documented with the state of Hawaii, as well as whether it will require registration before it may be used. These laws are often similar to what you would expect when purchasing a new automobile, but there are a few differences to make note of. Failure to comply with these regulations will typically result in fines but can potentially lead to your ATV being impounded if there are multiple offenses.
Do I Have to Title my ATV in Hawaii?
No – Hawaii law does not allow an ATV owner to title their vehicle with the state.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Hawaii if I use it on Private Property?
No – § 286-42 – Hawaii law exempts vehicles from registration that are not certified by the manufacturer to be in compliance with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This includes ATVs used solely on private property.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Hawaii if I use it on Public Property?
No – § 286-42 – Hawaii law exempts vehicles from registration that are not certified by the manufacturer to be in compliance with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This includes ATVs used solely on public roads and property.
Hawaii ATV Operation
The following laws establish how an a ATV may be legally operated within the state of Hawaii, on both private and public/state owned property. While ATVs do have 4 wheels, they are designed for off-road use and typically do not meet federal safety guidelines. As such, the state created laws to limit their use and protect the public from accidents. Failure to abide by these laws will typically result in costlier fines and potentially jail time depending on the offense.
What is the Minimum Age to Operate an ATV in Hawaii?
NA – § 286-12 – There are no age restrictions for general ATV use on private property in Hawaii, however if the ATV is operated on any public road the rider must be 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.
Can I Drive my ATV on Public Roads in Hawaii?
No – § 286-12 – Hawaii generally restricts the use on ATVs on public roads unless it being operated as farm equipment, by a licensed driver, traveling on a two lane road with a speed limit less than or equal to 35 mph, between two agricultural zones, during daylight, and while wearing a helmet.
Required Equipment in Hawaii
The following items are required by Hawaii law to be installed upon an ATV or worn by an operator during use.
| Helmet | Required if operating an ATV on public roads in conjunction with the provision listed above. |
| Headlight(s) | Not Required. |
| Tail Light | Not Required. |
| Muffler | Not Required. |
| Spark Arrestor | Not Required. |
| Brakes | Not Required. |
| Other |
Hawaii ATV Rules of the Road
- DUI/DWI – It is illegal in every state to operate a motor vehicle on public roads or property while under the influence of alcohol. Most states also employ a zero tolerance approach to ATVs and more strict penalties for excessive blood alcohol concentrations (BAC).