What’s happening
Honolulu’s DMV is currently struggling with a backlog of several thousand title and registration requests—as of early July, there were around 6,200 to 8,000 pending applications, marking a 40% increase from earlier in the year.
What’s causing it?
- Specialty title paper shortage: The DMV uses security-grade stock (watermarked, fiber-embedded) to produce official vehicle titles and similar documents. Across the U.S., some states have paused printing titles due to lack of this paper.
- High volume of transactions: Honolulu’s auto dealer activity has surged, overwhelming the DMV’s processing capacity.
Impact on drivers and dealers
- Long delays: Processing times that were previously 2–3 weeks have stretched to 5–6 weeks or more.
- Dealer frustration: Car dealers report inventory bottlenecks and customers driving without proper registration or title – risking fines.
- Driver risks: One dealer noted, “you have a good chance of getting a ticket” for lack of proper documentation.
For this reason, we at Carmark Hawaii request that you bring your vehicle registered and plated in Hawaii.
This will help avoid any additional delays caused by out-of-state paperwork or new title processing during this shortage.
What DMV is doing about it
The Department of Customer Services says:
- Staffing is adequate; the issue stems from volume not personnel shortages.
- They’re reallocating internal staff, streamlining processes, and updating technology to speed things up.
- Their public goal: return to the 2-week turnaround within a few weeks.
What residents and dealers can do
- Be prepared for delays: Expect registrations and titles to take 5–6 weeks or longer.
- Drive legally: If driving without credentials, carry documentation like sales receipts and confirmation of appointment.
- Track DMV status: Use DMV Now kiosks, online tools, or satellite offices to check progress.
Broader context: A national trend
Hawaii isn’t alone—other states have seen months-long delays due to similar paper shortages. This is a nationwide issue that’s expected to continue until supply chains normalize.
Bottom Line
The Hawaii DMV backlog isn’t a staffing issue—it stems from a national shortage of secure title paper combined with unprecedented demand. While Honolulu’s DMV is working to clear the queue and return to a 10-business-day standard, residents and dealers should brace for extended delays in the meantime.
If you’re selling a vehicle, keeping it registered and titled in Hawaii will help minimize complications. Here at www.carmarkhawaii.com we help you navigate and answer any questions you may have regarding selling your vehicle in Hawaii. Give us a call or text at 808-375-1488