How to Obtain a Marriage License in Hawaii: Comprehensive Guide
Planning a destination wedding in Hawaii? Obtaining a marriage license in this beautiful state is a simple process, but there are some important steps to follow. This guide will walk you through the eligibility requirements and the steps involved in obtaining your marriage license.
Part 1: Determining Eligibility
1. Where You Are Coming From
Hawaii welcomes couples from around the world, making it a popular choice for destination weddings. There are no residency requirements or citizenship restrictions for those seeking to get married in the state. You do not need to be a resident of Hawaii or a U.S. citizen to legally marry here.
2. Minors Under 18 Seeking Marriage
The legal marriage age in Hawaii is 18. However, couples under the age of 18 can still get married, but under certain conditions. For those between 16 and 17, parental consent is required. Consent forms must be completed by the parents or legal guardian and returned to the marriage license agent. Minors between 15 and 16 may marry with the written consent of both parents or legal guardian, as well as the approval of a family judge. Absent a family judge's approval, minors under 15 are not allowed to marry.
3. Marriage of Cousins and Other Relatives
While Hawaii allows the marriage of first cousins and more distant relatives, it does not permit the marriage of siblings, parents, nieces, nor aunts.
Part 2: Getting Your Marriage Certificate
1. Choosing an Officiant
To conduct the wedding ceremony, you need an officiant. This can be a licensed minister or a marriage performer. The name of the officiant is required on the marriage license application. If you do not have a marriage officiant, you can contact the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau at 808-924-0266 for a list of licensed officiants. Out-of-state ministers or individuals not typically performing marriages can apply online at the Hawaii Vital Records website. The application is recommended to be submitted between two weeks and two months prior to the ceremony.
2. Downloading the Marriage License Application
Obtain the marriage license application from the Hawaii government website. Fill out the application separately for each prospective spouse. Ensure that all information is provided in full with no initials and that it is submitted in black ink. You can also pay for the license in advance online. Alternatively, you can visit a marriage license agent in person and fill out the application. Be prepared to provide the full names of both spouses and their parents, as well as their addresses, places of birth, race, education, occupation, sex, and names of prior spouses.
3. Assembling Required Documentation
Before visiting the marriage license agent, ensure you have the following documents:
Proof of age identification If previously married, a divorce decree or death certificate to establish eligibility A check or cash for the license fee of $654. Finding and Contacting a Marriage License Agent
Hawaii provides an online directory of marriage license agents. Call in advance to schedule an appointment, as many agents operate by appointment only. Even if appointment is not necessary, it is advisable to call to confirm the agent's hours and preferred methods of payment.
5. Visiting the Marriage License Agent
Bring your completed but unsigned marriage application and all required documents. Both you and your partner will need to sign the document in the presence of the marriage license agent. Ensure to verify compliance with all requirements.
6. Legalizing the Marriage
The marriage license is valid for thirty days. Before its expiration, a marriage performer must sign the document to indicate the marriage has been performed. There is no waiting period, and you can use the license immediately after issuance. Witnesses are not required for the ceremony to be legal.