The Bottom Line Up Front

If you are moving to Hawaii with firearms, you must comply with the following laws:

• Register all out-of-state firearms with the Hawaii Police Department within 5 days of arrival.
• Leave behind all prohibited items, including "assault pistols" and handgun magazines holding more than 10 rounds.
• Physically bring the unloaded firearms to an HPD station in an enclosed container for inspection.

1. The 5-Day Registration Window (Do Not Delay)

This is the most critical rule for new residents: If you move to Hawaiʻi and bring in a firearm of any description, you must register the firearm within five (5) days after the firearm enters the state.

You must physically bring the firearms to a Hawaiʻi Police Department (HPD) registration station (such as the Kona station). Safety Note: When transporting the firearm to the police station, it must be completely unloaded and secured in an enclosed container or other suitable container.

2. What You Cannot Bring (Banned Items)

Before packing your safe, you must audit your collection. Several items commonly legal on the mainland are strictly prohibited in Hawaii, and bringing them into the state is a felony:

• High-Capacity Magazines: Handgun magazines may not hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
• Assault Pistols: You may not bring any firearm classified as an "assault pistol" into the state.
• Prohibited Ammunition: Armor-piercing, Teflon-coated ammunition, and ammunition designed to explode or segment upon impact are completely prohibited.

3. The Registration Process at HPD

Registration is currently handled by appointment only, Monday through Friday, at your district police station.

• Identification: You must be a United States citizen (or provide proof of citizenship if not born in the U.S.) and provide valid identification.
• Fingerprinting & Fees: You will be required to submit to fingerprinting and a photograph. A one-time fee of $42.00 is charged for the fingerprint check, payable only via money order or cashier’s check to the Hawaiʻi Criminal Justice Data Center.
• Documentation: A permit/registration is provided for each firearm make, model, and serial number. Keep this paperwork in a safe place.

Ready to Buy New Firearms in Hawaii?

Registering your mainland guns does not grant you a Hawaii Concealed Carry License, nor does it allow you to purchase new firearms locally without a training certificate. Safe Shooting Solutions provides the exact HPD approved firearm safety in Kona you need to apply for your permits.