Hawaii is famous for its beautiful mountains, stunning beaches, and warm aloha spirit, making it a top spot for couples looking to tie the knot. With all the breathtaking views around, it is easy to miss one of the best-kept secrets about getting married in Hawaii – it is actually one of the simplest places in the world to get married!
Once you are on the island, all you need to make it official is a Hawaii marriage license, and you will be good to go! Plus, a marriage there is recognized globally so that you can celebrate your love with peace of mind.
So, if you have decided to get married in Hawaii, you should learn what it takes to obtain a marriage license. The process is simple, but if you do not want to spend hours researching the rules and regulations, in this blog, we cover everything for you in steps. Once you read this Hawaii marriage license guide, you will be ready for your big day!
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Step 1: Pick a Location for Your Wedding
One of the first things you need to sort out for your Hawaii marriage is the location. Namely, it is essential to pick the place where you want to tie the knot so you will know where you should apply for your marriage license.
However, we should let you know beforehand that Hawaii comes with a lot of options. Therefore, deciding where you want to have your ceremony might not be easy. That is why we have a list of locations so you can check out the best spots in one place and not spend hours researching. Also, we can always help you with our suggestions and expertise!
So, take a look at our selection of parks and beaches for your wedding ceremony. You can check out the various beautiful views, how far they are to travel, and how private each spot is likely to be. Whatever setting you have envisioned for your big day can be achieved because Hawaii has it all!
Just remember that choosing the location first is crucial. That will help you put your bridal planning in the right direction!
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Step 2: Check Out Eligibility for Hawaiian Marriage License
Hawaii is an incredibly popular spot for weddings, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, but also for the ease with which you can tie the knot on the island. So, if you are dreaming of an intimate ceremony in paradise, Hawaii is one of the simplest places on the planet to get married.
To make your Hawaii marriage legal, all you really need is a marriage license, and luckily, the process is straightforward. What is even better is that you do not need a witness to sign your license, making it a perfect option for those looking to elope. Since we have experience in handling these things for our couples, we are ready to ensure your special day goes off without an issue, guiding you through the legal requirements while you enjoy the romance of it all.
To apply for a Hawaii marriage license, make sure you meet a few basic eligibility requirements. Both partners need to be at least 18 years old and must not be closer than first cousins. The good news is that you do not need to be a resident of Hawaii or even a U.S. citizen, and no blood tests are required.
However, you need to have a valid government-issued photo ID on hand, and if you are under 18, a certified copy of your birth certificate may be necessary. If you have recently gone through a divorce or lost a spouse, you might need additional paperwork!
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Step 3: Apply For an Application Online
If you are looking to apply for a Hawaii marriage license, the simplest way is to fill out an online application within a year of your ceremony date. There is a $65 fee that you will need to pay directly to the State of Hawaii when you submit your application.
Once you have sent in your application, you will receive a Locator ID or Authorization Code – an 8-digit number that acts as a confirmation. Make sure to keep that number saved, as it will be important for tracking your application!
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Step 4: Pick Up Your Marriage License
When you get to Hawaii, stop by the Department of Health to pick up the marriage license that you applied for online. You will need to do this before the wedding. Both you and your partner need to be there with the necessary documents – typically just photo IDs, but it is best to verify the requirements beforehand.
Since you need to pick up your Hawaii marriage license personally, plan to arrive on the island at least three days beforehand. It is better to be early than to do everything in a hurry. Once you have the marriage license, you should not forget to bring it to your ceremony.
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Step 5: Obtain a Marriage Certificate
The Department of Health will send your official marriage certificate directly to the address you provided in your online application. After your ceremony, you can expect it to arrive in the mail within about 4 to 6 weeks.
Once you receive it, you can use your marriage certificate not just in all fifty states but also internationally. So, no need to worry about its validity – it is recognized everywhere!
Conclusion
As you can see, getting a Hawaii marriage license is a very simple process done in only five steps – and voila, you will be married. You just need to make sure you have all the documents ready and apply on time so you do not end up doing everything last minute. However, you can always ask us to help you with the legal stuff because we have experience, meaning you will be able to enjoy the wedding planning you deserve!
To begin your wedding preparations, feel free to fill out the contact form and get in touch with us. For more information, check out the Locations and Wedding Packages pages, or feel free to explore our blog!
