Hawaii License Plate

Plate Design

Aloha State (Standard)

Hawaii's standard plate is one of the most cheerful in the country — a bright rainbow arches across a white background, giving the plate its nickname: the "Rainbow plate." "Hawaii" appears in blue across the top and "Aloha State" runs along the bottom. The rainbow is more than decorative; Hawaii averages more rainbows per year than any other US state, thanks to its tropical climate and volcanic terrain.

How Rare Is It on the Road Trip Game?

Rare. Hawaii is the only US state that is not part of the North American mainland, so its plates almost never appear on the continental road system. Shipping a vehicle from Hawaii to the mainland is expensive and uncommon — the few you'll spot typically belong to military families, recent transplants, or travelers who relocated and kept their registration.

Spotting Tip

Your best chances are near large military bases — Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam sends personnel to bases across the country, and some bring their Hawaii-plated vehicles. San Diego, Norfolk, and the Pacific Northwest are the most productive mainland hunting grounds. If you spot one anywhere else, consider it a major find.

Fun Fact

Hawaii is the only US state where you can legally drive on a road that crosses active lava flows — on the Big Island, some routes pass directly through areas of ongoing volcanic activity, and the road surface itself can be new lava rock just years old.

Ready to keep hunting? Head back to the game to check HI off your list, or browse all 50 states in the guide.