More and more couples are looking for a wedding where they exchange vows solely in the presence of an officiant. A destination wedding in Hawaii is surprisingly easy to organize, but every couple wonders whether getting married without a witness is actually legal.
We get this question all the time from couples who are looking to get married in Hawaii. The short answer – no, you don’t need extra witnesses because marriage laws in Hawaii keep it simple.
Let’s break down the 2026 rules of getting married in Hawaii.
The Need for Witnesses
Hawaii wedding requirements are quite straightforward. Specifically, the marriage license form has only three signature spaces: one for each partner and one for the officiant. There are no lines for witnesses, which means none are required.
The officiant counts as the official witness under state rules. This is the perfect setup for couples who want to elope privately without having to hunt down friends or family. How many times have you seen beach ceremonies with just three people? Numerous, probably, and every one turned out legally binding.
This is a rule that holds even for civil and courthouse weddings. As long as the officiant signs off, you’re good. If you are someone who wants the magic of Hawaii without the extra people and all the fuss, then you are among the couples who are drawn by this flexibility.
The Hawaii Marriage Licenses
You may not need a witness, but you do need a marriage license to get married in Hawaii. Here are the steps you need to follow to get one.
Start online by visiting the eHawaii portal, filling out the application, and paying $65 ($60 for the license plus a $5 fee). You then need to print or note your authorization code.
Next, book an in-person slot with a licensed agent no more than 30 days before your wedding. It’s mandatory that both of you show up with photo IDs such as passports or driver’s licenses. No proxies allowed. The marriage agent will check the accuracy of your information and your documents. Once verified, the agent will hand over the license right there.
Keep in mind that the license is valid statewide for 30 days and takes effect immediately after issue. There’s no waiting period. You won’t be needing blood tests or residency, but you should be 18 or older.
Who Can Be the Officiant?
Under marriage laws in Hawaii, your wedding ceremony may be officiated by any state-licensed performer. This can be a judge, a clergy, or an authorized minister. After your wedding, the officiant can register your marriage online with the Department of Health and get your union registered immediately.
You will need to ensure that the officiant can handle a ceremony that fit your vibe whether it is religious or not. No religious ties are required; all you need to do is ensure your officiant is licensed before the date.
Remote officiants won’t cut it because everyone, meaning the couple and the officiant, must be physically in Hawaii. Proxy marriages are forbidden.
Eligibility for 2026
- To get married in Hawaii, you both need to be over 18. The laws are clear that parental consent is mandatory for minors who wish to get married.
- For past marriages, you’ll need to bring recent divorce decrees or death certificates (under 30 days of age).
- IDs are required to prove age and identity.
- Birth certificates are not required.
- No U.S. citizenship is needed, so international couples can get married here.
Step-by-Step to Being Legally Wed
- Apply online and save the code you receive.
- Meet the agent together to present your IDs and any divorce papers or other documents.
- Book your officiant.
- Select a spot: beach, park, estate, or oceanfront options are available.
- Say your vows, have the officiant sign, and you are done.
- The officiant should file the certificate online within days, while you’ll get copies later.
Common Myths
Myth one: You must have two witnesses.
This is absolutely not true. It’s a requirement in other states, but not in Hawaii.
Myth two: Licenses take weeks.
Wrong. Apply online and get a same-day pickup after your meeting with the agent.
Myth three: Only residents qualify.
Hawaii welcomes visitors who elope here daily. They come from all over the world to have a Hawaiian destination wedding.
Myth four: It’s required to get married in a church.
False. Any licensed spot works well, from sandy beaches to hotel and parks. You choose where you wish to get married.
After the Vows Are Said
Once you have exchanged the vows and completed the main part, your officiant will submit the certificate electronically. You can always check the status online or request certified copies from the Health Department.
You can select a declared Middle and Last name on your marriage application. Once the marriage is filed, the name change is complete. If a name change is needed for your other IDs, you should file it separately with Social Security and the DMV back home.
2026 Updates You Should Know
Heading into 2026, Hawaii’s wedding requirements saw no significant changes. License fees hold steady at $65, and the overall process runs just as smoothly as before.
The registration of the officiant remains a quick online step. The beaches and venues stay open and pristine for your wedding day, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot.
Stress-Free Planning Tips
Try to book your top spots early, especially during peak seasons when demand spikes; you will be left with very few options. Keep in mind that the weather shifts fast here, so line up backup options to keep things smooth.
You’ll want to pack light with just your license, rings, and all that love. At the same time, you let the pros handle the paperwork for total peace of mind.
Oceanfront beaches, parks, and ridges are at your disposal to get married in Hawaii. You can capture the view or the sunset while you share your first kiss as a married couple.
Conclusion
Are you ready to make it official? Fill out our contact page today, or head to the Locations or Wedding Packages pages to start planning your perfect Hawaii moment. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
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