Are you planning to relocate to Maui with your dog? You’re not alone. Many of our clients are moving to Hawaii and want their furry companions to join them without the stress of a long quarantine.

Hawaii is the only rabies-free state in the U.S., which is why the state has strict animal importation rules. But with the right planning and documentation, you can qualify for Direct Airport Release (DAR) and avoid quarantine altogether.

Here’s everything you need to know to bring your dog safely and legally to Maui.

Quick Checklist: What You’ll Need

✅ Two rabies vaccinations (at least 30 days apart)

✅ FAVN rabies antibody blood test (≥0.5 IU/mL)

✅ Microchip implantation (must be readable and before testing)

✅ Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian

✅ Import forms submitted at least 10 days before arrival

✅ Payment of DAR fees to Maui Humane Society

✅ Approved arrival at Kahului Airport (OGG) under DAR program

 View Dog Relocation Checklist (Download PDF)

Step-by-Step: How to Bring Your Dog to Maui

Step 1: Get Microchipped

Your dog must have a working microchip implanted before rabies testing. The state verifies test results and identity through this method.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations (2 Required)

Hawaii requires two rabies vaccinations, administered at least 30 days apart. The second shot must be given more than 30 days before arrival.

Step 3: FAVN Blood Test

Have your vet draw blood and send it to an approved lab for the FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) test. Your dog must test ≥0.5 IU/mL to qualify.

Your pet must wait 30 days after the blood draw before arriving in Maui.

Step 4: Submit Required Paperwork

Mail or email the following to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Maui Humane Society:

  • AQS-279 Form (Dog & Cat Import Form)
  • Rabies vaccination certificates
  • FAVN results
  • Microchip documentation
  • Health certificate (issued within 14 days of arrival)
  • Direct Airport Release application

View Hawaii's AQS-279 Form (Download PDF)

Step 5: Pay Direct Release Fees

For Maui arrivals, you’ll pay:

  • $185 for Direct Airport Release (per animal)
  • Additional airline fees for in-cabin or cargo transport

Pay the Maui Humane Society in advance to avoid delays.

Step 6: Schedule Arrival at Kahului (OGG)

Not all flights qualify. You must:

  • Fly into OGG during approved DAR hours
  • Coordinate arrival with Maui Humane Society’s Animal Quarantine Liaison
  • Arrive during staffed inspection hours (varies by season/airline)

Contact Maui Humane Society DAR Program

Common Mistakes That Cause Quarantine

  • Incorrect vaccine timing
  • FAVN test is too close to the travel date
  • Microchip not working
  • Incomplete paperwork
  • Last-minute submissions

Even a small error can result in a 120-day quarantine at the Animal Quarantine Station on Oahu. Don’t take the risk — follow the timeline carefully.

Moving to Maui with Your Dog? Choose the Right Home

Maui is a paradise for dog lovers, but not all properties are pet-friendly. When working with clients relocating with pets, we help them find homes with:

  • Fenced yards and pet-safe landscaping
  • Dog-friendly condos (some allow with board approval)
  • Proximity to parks and walking trails
  • Local vet clinics, pet boarding, and dog beaches are nearby

See Pet-Friendly Maui Homes for Sale

Related Resources on MauiProperty.com

We’re Dog Owners Too — Let’s Find You a Pet-Friendly Home

Whether moving full-time or buying a second home in Maui, we understand how important it is to bring your four-legged family members with you. We’ve helped dozens of clients relocate with pets, and we'd love to help you, too.

📞 Call us at 808-271-8832

📨 Or schedule your consultation here