Enriched by beautiful nature with mesmerizing sea views and lush green gardens, Hawaii is a dream wedding destination for many. The tropical climate, the constant good weather, and the unique culture of this place are the additional reasons behind the state’s appeal, making dream celebrations as effortless as ever. However, like any other state, Hawaii has its own marriage laws that you should be aware of before planning your wedding. For this purpose, we made this article where we will talk about Hawaii marriage licenses and legal requirements. This will help you find out everything that is important for your wedding, not to stress but to carelessly wait for the moment of your marriage and celebration of love.
Things you should know before applying for a Hawaii marriage license
Difference between Hawaii wedding licenses
One of the first things you should pay attention to is the difference between a civil union and a Hawaii marriage license. The difference between these two documents is that the former is a recognized document that offers you protections only at the level of the specific State. In other words, having such a document is not proof of marriage. If you want your marriage to be recognized by a federal law that applies everywhere, then you need an official marriage License.
Understanding the difference between a marriage license and a certificate is also important. The marriage certificate is the actual proof of your marriage, giving you all the benefits of a married couple. On the other hand, a Hawaii marriage license is the document you must get before the ceremony. This document allows and authorizes your wedding. With that, you, your partner, and the Hawaii marriage officiant sign this document, which is then forwarded to the State to issue a wedding certificate.
Fees
A Hawaii marriage license isn’t free. Don’t worry, though – these fees aren’t too expensive and won’t blow your budget, but you should keep them in mind. The cost of this fee is $60 for the application plus another $5 portal fee.
Waiting time
While in other states, there is a practice of waiting time, in Hawaii, you can wait immediately after receiving your license. In this way, spontaneity is maintained, contributing to the romance of your Hawaii wedding.
Legal age
To get married in Hawaii independently, being the age of 18 is necessary. This means that the age has been reached to give consent from both parties, and the Hawaii wedding can take place.
However, in the state, the relationship can be crowned with marriage starting from the age of 15. But for this, the consent of the guardians, as well as confirmation from a judge, is required. If we are talking about individuals between the ages of sixteen and seventeen, only a confirmation from the guardians that they allow this marriage is sufficient.
Qualifications of your Minister
You already know the importance of obtaining a Hawaii marriage license. However, to be officially married, you need to hire an officiant. Of course, if you want one of your friends to orchestrate your ceremony, that is possible. But pay attention to the deadlines when your friends need to apply for a license and get it on time so as not to complicate things unnecessarily. Still, since the Island State is magnificent at its core and includes plenty of cultural intricacies, it’s recommended that you opt for a professional Hawaii marriage officiant. Along with a beautiful ceremony, they can perform a unique tradition on the island, making your Hawaii wedding nothing short of spectacular.
The process of getting a Hawaii marriage license
Now that we’ve discussed all the things you need to know before applying for a Hawaii marriage license, it’s time to explain the process in detail.
Select a location and choose a date
Before you start preparing for the application, it is important to decide on the exact time and place where the Hawaii wedding will take place. This data is essential during the application process and obtaining a license.
If you have not yet decided on a specific location, visit our website, where, with the help of our Hawaii marriage officiants, you will choose the perfect place for your special day. In addition, you will not need to worry at all during the process of obtaining the license. Even if you decide on the smallest Hawaii wedding package, the entire process of getting the necessary documentation will be covered by us.
Find a Minister
The next step in the process of obtaining a Hawaii marriage license is finding a competent and experienced wedding minister. In addition to the mandate of their license to perform this type of service, their experience is also important. That way, in addition to the wedding party itself, they will orchestrate your ceremony and create a perfect atmosphere.
They will also help navigate the entire process, from getting your license to getting a copy of your marriage certificate at the end.
Fill out an Online Application
After deciding on the venue and date, as well as choosing a wedding minister, the online Hawaii marriage license application must be filled out. All you have to do is visit the Hawaii Department of Health website and fill out the form.
Visit an Agent for the Hawaii Marriage License
To obtain the license, it is mandatory to visit an agent responsible for it, and the meeting must be done in person. After receiving the license, it is viable for one month, which gives you more than enough time to make it official.
Provide the necessary documentation
To get a Hawaii marriage license, you need to submit the appropriate documentation. Blood tests are no longer required, as is being an American citizen. However, the blood relationship must not be closer than that of first cousins.
First, you need proof of identification. This will confirm your identity and that you are over eighteen years of age. If you are younger, we have mentioned above which additional documents you should bring.
If you are applying for a marriage license in person, you’ll need to pay a fee of $65.
In addition to identification documents, your dates and places of birth, rhe full names of your parents, as well as your SSN (Social Security Number), are required. The following is information about your residential address the date and place where you will hold your Hawaii wedding. If you divorced less than a month ago, submit a copy of the document and state the reason. Finally, write the name of the elected Hawaii marriage officiant.
Exchange your leis and say “I Do”
After receiving your Hawaii marriage license, all that’s left for you is to go to your beautiful location, exchange promises of eternal love, and say “I Do”. Next comes the crowning of your love story and an all-day celebration with your loved ones. Certainly, the most beautiful moments of life!
If you liked this article, check out the rest of our blogs, as well as the locations and services we offer as Hawaii marriage officiants. In case you decide, all you have to do is fill out the contact form and prepare for a romantic celebration beyond your wildest dreams.
