New plates for the 808

The Rainbow is being retired after 30 years of circulation across Hawai’i’s islands.

Reports of change to Hawai’i’s license plate design came into circulation at the beginning of 2023. Still, the timeline for implementing the new plates remains uncertain and is not expected this year.  

The familiar standard license plate in Hawai’i has been used since 1991 and features a rainbow across the plate number, the state name above, and the words “Aloha State” below.

The change in design is standard with 10 changes to the state of Hawai’i license plates since 1957.

Currently, multiple other license plate options are available at additional costs at local Hawaii DMVs.

Two national park license plates are available in Hawai’i and depict scenes of sacred wildlife and landscapes. The first shows a Nene amongst Silversword overlooking Haleakala, and the second depicts an erupting Kilauea.

The National Parks plates came into circulation in 2015 and are available at local DMVs costing $35.50 with a $25 annual renewal fee. 

Of the cost, $18 is donated to the two parks Haleakala National Park and Hawai’i Volcanos National Park.  

Above: National Parks Plates. Photo courtesy of their site.

Another option supports the Polynesian Voyaging society and depicts the Hokulea anchored at Kualoa, Oahu. Similarly, the plate initially costs $35.50 including a $20 donation and a renewal fee of $25 annually thereafter. 

Above: Polynesian Voyaging Society license plate. Photo courtesy of their site.

While the design release remains uncertain, Hawai’i residents have many options wile waiting for the new 808 plates.