In Hawaii, understanding the state’s no-fault insurance system is key to staying legal and protected. Below is a complete guide to what’s required, how Hawaii enforces coverage in real time, and how to avoid costly penalties.
Minimum Coverage Requirements
Hawaii law requires all drivers to carry:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $10,000 per person
- Property Damage Liability: $20,000 per accident
Note: Hawaii’s no-fault system means your own insurance pays for injuries, regardless of who caused the crash.
Optional Coverages to Consider
To better protect yourself and your vehicle, you may want to add:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
- Collision Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Rental Car Reimbursement
- Roadside Assistance
Leased or financed vehicles typically require collision and comprehensive coverage.
How Hawaii Enforces Insurance in Real Time
Hawaii uses electronic insurance verification, meaning the state can confirm whether your insurance is active without a traffic stop. If your policy lapses, your insurer must report it, which may trigger:
- Fines or citations
- Suspension of registration or license
- Mandatory SR-22 filing (for repeat or serious violations)
Insurance status is electronically tied to your vehicle registration, so always ensure continuous coverage.
Proof of Insurance
Drivers must carry insurance proof and show it when:
- Pulled over by police
- Involved in an accident
- Registering or renewing a vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hawaii a no-fault state?
Yes. Your own PIP insurance pays for injuries after an accident, regardless of who caused it. Lawsuits are only allowed in cases of serious injury.
What does PIP cover?
PIP (Personal Injury Protection) pays for medical costs, lost wages, and sometimes essential services after a crash, no matter who was at fault.
What is SR-22 insurance in Hawaii?
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files to prove you meet Hawaii’s minimum insurance requirements—typically required after serious violations like driving without insurance or DUI.
Can you go to jail for not having insurance in Hawaii?
While jail is unlikely for a first offense, repeat violations can lead to serious penalties, including license suspension and higher insurance rates due to SR-22 requirements.
Quick Checklist for Hawaii Drivers
- Maintain at least $10,000 PIP and $20,000 property damage liability
- Keep your insurance active to avoid registration suspension
- Carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times
- Consider optional coverage like UM/UIM, collision, and comprehensive
- If required to file SR-22, make sure your insurer submits it
Official Resources
Curious how Hawaii’s coverage compares to the mainland?
View other state requirements →