Hawaii is rabies-free, and the state has strict quarantine laws to prevent the introduction of rabies. Pet owners bringing dogs or cats to Hawaii must follow specific requirements to qualify for programs like Direct Airport Release (DAR) or the 5 Day or Less Quarantine.
Requirements
Microchip
Your pet must have an electronic microchip implanted before the FAVN rabies antibody test is performed. Make sure the microchip is working because a pet that cannot be identified by scanning the microchip at arrival will be subject to 120 days quarantine.
Rabies Vaccinations & Testing
- Pets must have (2) two rabies vaccinations at least 30 days apart in its lifetime. The most recent rabies vaccination must have been administered more than 30 days before arrival and still be valid when your pet arrives in Hawaii.
- Your pet must pass a OIE-FAVN rabies antibody test with a result of 0.5 IU/ml or greater. Results must be received by the Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) at least 10 days before arrival.
- The FAVN test must be performed by an approved lab – Auburn University (AU), Kansas State University (KSU), University of Missouri (MU), or the DOD Food analysis and Diagnostic Laboratory (DOD).
Waiting Period & Entry Date
All pets must complete a 30-day waiting period between the day the approved laboratory receives the pet's blood sample and the date of arrival. If the pet arrives before 30 days have elapsed, the pet is subject to quarantine until the waiting period has been completed.
Example: The approved lab receives the pet's blood sample on January 1st. The first day of the 30-day waiting period begins on January 2nd. If the pet receives a passing result, they are eligible to enter Hawaii on February 1st.
Pets must arrive in Hawaii between 30 days and 36 months after the date the lab receives their blood sample, no earlier or later.
Within 14 Days of Arrival
Pets must complete a health exam and be treated for ticks with a long-acting product (Revolution is not accepted) within (14) days of arrival. The pet's rabies vaccination history and tick treatment must be recorded on the health certificate.
Document Submission
- Completed pet entry application via the Hawaii Pet Owner's Portal (HIPOP) at least 10 days before arrival (HNL). If flying direct to a Neighbor Island (Big Island, Maui, or Kauai), application must be received at least 30 days before arrival.
- Original certificates of the (2) most recent rabies vaccinations showing the vaccine name, lot or serial number, booster interval, vaccination date, and vaccine lot expiration date. Certificates must be signed in ink by a licensed veterinarian.
- Original health certificate in English completed within (14) days of arrival in Hawaii.
- A copy of the passing FAVN test result showing the pet's microchip number.
- For Neighbor Island inspections, confirmation from an approved veterinary facility.
Programs and Fees
- Direct Airport Release (DAR) in Honolulu: $185 if documents submitted 10 days before arrival, or $244 if not.
- 5 Day or Less Quarantine: $244.
If pet arrives early before they are eligible: $244 + $14.30/day early.
- Neighbor Island Inspection Permit (NIIP) for Kona, Kahului, or Maui: $165. NIIP requires prior reservations with approved veterinary facilities.
- Re-Entry: $98 if documents submitted 10 days before arrival, or $130 if not.
Inspection Hours and Late Arrivals
Inspections at Honolulu Airport (HNL) are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Pets arriving after 4:30 p.m. may be held overnight, incurring additional fees.
Neighbor Island Arrivals
NIIP is mandatory for direct flights to Kona, Kahului, or Maui. Approved veterinary facilities must inspect pets upon arrival. Owners must arrange reservations well in advance.
Prohibited Breeds & Special Cases
- Certain hybrid breeds (e.g., wolf hybrids) are not allowed.
- Puppies and kittens under 6 months old generally cannot meet the 5 Day or Less requirements and will undergo 120-day quarantine.
Pets from Rabies-Free Areas
Pets from the British Isles, Australia, Guam, and New Zealand have simplified procedures but must still meet import rules.
Additional Information
- Owners must handle transporting pets in crates upon release.
- Misrepresentation of service animals is a legal violation with penalties.
Recommendations
- Begin preparations months in advance.
- Create a free custom checklist with our Mokupet Travel Planner.
- Ensure all documentation is complete and submitted early to avoid delays and extra costs.
- Contact AQS via email at rabiesfree@hawaii.gov for specific questions or visit their website for program checklists and FAQs.
Following these steps will ensure a smoother process for bringing pets to Hawaii while avoiding quarantine delays.
