Often one of the 1st questions our wedding photography clients ask is “How do I get a Hawaii Marriage License?” This is understandable since a good share of the weddings we photograph are Destination Weddings. So, how do you get that Hawaii Marriage License?

It’s a very easy process. Both the prospective bride and groom must come together to apply for the marriage license from a licensed Hawaii marriage license agent. If you’re getting married on Oahu (or Honolulu County) your best bet is here:

Hawaii Marriage License Office
Kinau Hale
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu Hawaii 96813
Phone: (808) 586-4545
Monday-Friday 8 am-4pm

If you’re getting married on Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Molokai or Lanai, do a Google search to find the correct place. One thing to note is that no matter what Hawaii Island you get the license on, it’s good for weddings on all Islands. So if you’re coming to Oahu before going on to your wedding Maui, you can get the license on Oahu. One license, good for every Island.

You will need to bring some proof of your age to certify you are both over the age of 18. For those who are 18 years or younger, you must present a certified copy of your birth certificate. Also, if one or both of you are under 18, you should get written consent of both parents or legal guardian or the family court.

If you are 19 years or older, a current, valid ID or driver’s license will suffice.

It should be noted that if the bride or groom has been divorced within the previous 6 months, you must bring proof of the divorce decree. This cannot be faxed, it must be brought with you.

Once approved, the marriage license is issued to the happy couple and allows the wedding to proceed immediately. That means no waiting period. However, for those who aren’t going straight to the chapel, your Hawaii marriage license is good for 30 days.

After 30 days, the license is null and void and should be returned in the pre-addressed envelope you’ll receive when it was issued to you. The license application can be downloaded online and should be filled out completely before going in to the License Office.

As of this writing, the marriage license will cost you $60, which must be paid in cash at that time. Call ahead to see if appointments can be made at the office you’re going to as it could make the process smoother at a time when things can be overwhelming. Best of luck and many happy years together!

Article courtesy of G. Kai & Kai-Photo, Hawaii Wedding Photographers based in Honolulu, Hawaii. Any use of this article must contain the above credit and link.