How to Get a Marriage License in Hawaii
If you've ever dreamt of saying "I do" against the backdrop of Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, you're not alone. Fortunately, the process of getting married in Hawaii is as enchanting as the destination itself! In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps of obtaining a marriage license in Hawaii, ensuring that your wedding planning is smooth and stress-free.
Getting married in Hawaii is a dream many share, drawn to the year-round warm and sunny weather and the promise of a picturesque ceremony. To lawfully marry in the State of Hawaii, a marriage license is a must, and the good news is that the process is very straightforward. Whether you're a visitor captivated by the islands or a resident wanting to celebrate your union in a cherished place, Hawaii welcomes you with open arms.
No Citizenship, No Blood Tests, No Fuss
One of the charming aspects of getting married in Hawaii is the lack of stringent requirements. You don't need to be a U.S. citizen, and there's no need for blood tests. This makes it exceptionally easy for couples from around the world to exchange vows on this tropical haven. To kickstart the process, we recommend filling out the marriage license application online ahead of time to streamline the in-person steps.
How Much Does a Marriage License Cost?
Let's talk numbers. As of now, the cost for your marriage license in Hawaii is a reasonable $65. This includes a $60 application fee and a $5 administration fee. Not bad at all for the privilege of saying your vows in one of the most beautiful places on earth!
Who Can Officiate Your Dream Ceremony?
Now, here's something uncommon and important to note. Only state-approved "performers" can legally officiate your wedding ceremony in Hawaii. Unfortunately, this means your cousin or best friend can't lead the ceremony, no matter how much they practiced their lines. But on the plus side, some wedding officiants will walk you through the license process themselves and ensure you get all the proper paperwork completed.
Here are a few wedding officiants in Kauai that I recommend:
Once you've got a wedding officiant booked, and the license paperwork is complete, you're all set to make it official!
License vs. Certificate
Before we go deeper, let's clarify some terminology. The marriage license is your golden ticket to the ceremony, allowing it to take place. On the other hand, the marriage certificate is the official document confirming that the marriage has been legally performed. Now, with these distinctions in mind, let's look at the eligibility criteria for obtaining a marriage license.
Eligibility Criteria and Required Documentation
When you and your beloved are ready to take the plunge, both of you must appear in person before a marriage license agent. The legal age to marry is 18. If either party is 16 or 17 years old, written consent from both parents, a legal guardian, or the family court is required. Proof of age is a must, with a certified copy of a birth certificate for those 18 and under, and a valid ID or driver's license for those 19 and over.
If either party has been previously married, proof of the original divorce decree or death certificate must be presented to the marriage agent. Note that fax copies won't cut it; it has to be the real deal.
The good news? You can get the license the same day it's applied for, as long as it's a weekday (non-holiday) during business hours. And you can even have your wedding on the very day the license is issued. Note that the license expires after 30 days (including the date of issuance).
Beach Use Permits
It’s also important to note that if you are planning a beach wedding in Hawaii, The Department of Land & Natural Resources (DLNR) requires beach use permits for all weddings held on Hawaiian beaches. This is where a licensed wedding officiant comes into play. They'll apply for and obtain the permit on behalf of the couple, ensuring your ceremony is not just breathtaking but also compliant with the state's regulations.
Applying for a Wedding License: The Step-by-Step
Now that we've covered the essentials, let's walk through the application process.
Step 1: How to Apply for a Wedding License
The soon-to-be newlyweds need to fill out their application online ahead of time. This must be done before you can appear in front the marriage license agent to validate the marriage license.
Step 2: Wedding License Agents in Hawaii
To validate your identity and issue the legal wedding license on paper, couples will meet with Hawaii Wedding License Agents in person. This can only be done on weekdays (excluding holidays) during business hours.
Step 3: Getting Married
Once the license is in hand, it's time to say your vows! You can have your ceremony as soon as your license is issued and it’s valid for 30 days afterwards (including the issued date).
Once your marriage is complete and the forms are finalized, you can print a temporary license from the State of Hawaii website. Your final legal marriage certificate will be mailed to you directly from the State of Hawaii, sealing the deal on your union in paradise.
Here's to a celebration filled with love, laughter, and a lifetime of cherished memories in Hawaii!
I would love to answer your questions as you plan your wedding in Hawaii. Please don’t hesitate to email or call. And if you’re looking for a Kauai wedding photographer for your big day, I’d love to connect with you and help build your dream wedding in Kauai!