Hilo, HI Bill of Sale
Hilo serves as the hub of Hawaii County's vehicle market on the Big Island, where pickup trucks and 4WD SUVs dominate due to the island's rural terrain and active agricultural community. The Hawaii County DMV in Hilo processes all Big Island title transfers. Buyers moving vehicles between the Big Island and other islands must account for inter-island shipping logistics.
Title Transfer Deadline
30 days
Sales Tax
4% state
Notarization
Not required
Bill of Sale
Required
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Vehicle Bill of Sale · Hawaii
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Bill of Sale in Hilo, HI — Local Guide
Where to Transfer a Title in Hilo
- Hawaii County DMV – Hilo Main Office, 349 Kapiolani St, Hilo, HI 96720
- Hawaii County DMV – Kona Branch, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
- Hawaii County Motor Vehicle Registration, 101 Pauahi St, Hilo, HI 96720
Hilo Vehicle Market — What You Need to Know
- Hilo's rainy climate and volcanic terrain accelerate undercarriage wear — rust and mud damage are common concerns in private sales.
- Trucks and 4WD vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and Chevy Silverado are highly sought after for farm access roads and lava fields.
- The 4% Hawaii GET applies to all vehicle sales; confirm the amount due before visiting the Hilo DMV.
- Police department parking lots in Hilo on Kinoole Street serve as recommended safe exchange zones.
- Vehicle prices on the Big Island can run higher than Honolulu due to limited supply and the cost of shipping vehicles to the island.
Tips for Hilo Buyers and Sellers
- Inspect vehicles for rust from the underside — Hilo's high rainfall creates ideal conditions for corrosion on older vehicles.
- Have the vehicle checked for volcanic ash or lava dust damage to the air intake and engine compartment, especially if purchased from the Puna or Ka'u districts.
- Confirm the safety inspection certificate is current; Hawaii County requires annual inspections at certified stations.
- The Hawaii County DMV on Kapiolani Street is the primary title transfer office — arrive early as lines build quickly in the morning.
- Complete the bill of sale before visiting the DMV and include the purchase price, VIN, make, model, year, and both parties' signatures.
Hilo Bill of Sale — FAQs
Can I buy a vehicle in Hilo and ship it to Oahu?
Yes. Young Brothers handles inter-island freight from Hilo Harbor. Complete the Hilo title transfer first, then arrange shipping — the process takes several days and adds several hundred dollars in shipping costs.
Does Hawaii County require notarization on a vehicle bill of sale?
No. Hawaii does not require notarization for a private party vehicle bill of sale. Both parties should sign the document and retain copies.
What office handles title transfers for vehicles sold in Hilo?
The Hawaii County DMV at 349 Kapiolani St in Hilo handles all Big Island title transfers. Bring the signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and GET payment.
For full Hawaii vehicle transfer requirements, visit the Hawaii Bill of Sale page.