How to Get Legally Married in Hawaii: It’s As Easy as 1, 2 3!

Getting married in Hawaii is simpler than most couples expect. You need a Hawaii marriage license, a licensed Hawaii officiant, and a ceremony within 30 days of picking up your license. There's no residency requirement, no blood test, and no waiting period.

This guide walks through each step of getting legally married on Oahu, from the online application to filing your license after the ceremony.

Who can get legally married in Hawaii?

Anyone 18 or older can apply for a Hawaii marriage license. You do not need to live in Hawaii or be a U.S. citizen. Same-sex couples can marry in Hawaii, and a Hawaii marriage is legally recognized in your home state. For international couples, most countries will accept the license as valid!

If either partner was divorced or widowed less than 30 days before picking up the license, bring the certified divorce decree or death certificate. Beyond that, you don’t need to bring those certificates, just state the date on the online application in step 1! 

Step 1: Apply online

Both partners complete the online marriage license application on the State of Hawaii's website and pay the $65 fee. Write down your Authorization Code, because the license agent will ask for it in step 2!

Step 2: Meet a license agent together

Both of you must appear in person before a marriage license agent. Each partner brings a valid government-issued photo ID (whatever gets you on a plane will get you a marriage license), such as a passport or driver's license. You can meet the agent no more than 30 days before your ceremony.

On Oahu, the main office is in downtown Honolulu and takes appointments online. Private agents are also available around the island. Bonus tip: If you are staying at Turtle Bay or Four Seasons Ko’Olina, they have private agents on staff - just give the concierge desk a call. 

Step 3: Have your ceremony within 30 days

Your license is valid for 30 days and only within the State of Hawaii. There is no waiting period, so you can pick up your license and get married the same day. However, I do recommend getting it a few days before just in case!

Do you need witnesses to get married in Hawaii?

No. Hawaii does not require witnesses. Your ceremony only needs the two of you and a licensed Hawaii officiant. That makes Hawaii one of the easiest places to elope.

Who files the marriage license?

Your officiant does. After the ceremony, your officiant submits the completed license to the State. At Oahu Officiant, we file your license the same day as your ceremony. You get a temporary copy emailed to you within 3 business days and a hard copy will find you in about 2-3 weeks. 

Can you get married in Hawaii the same day?

Yes. Because Hawaii has no waiting period, couples can get their license and marry on the same day. If you're getting married within a week, text or call us at (209) 324-0505 so we can help you move fast.

Quick checklist

• Both partners are 18 or older

• Online application completed and $65 fee paid

• Valid photo ID for each partner

• Appointment with a license agent, together, within 30 days of the ceremony

• A licensed Hawaii officiant booked

  
  

Ready to get married on Oahu?

If you just want to make it legal, our Sign & Go ceremony is the fastest way to get married on Oahu. If you want photos, location help, and a beach permit handled for you, see our all-inclusive elopement packages. Every package includes marriage license assistance and same-day filing.