Everything You Need to Know About Getting Married in Hawaii

Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Hawaii

Wondering who can officiate a wedding in Hawaii? The answer is surprisingly flexible. According to Hawaii state law, a marriage can be solemnized by:

• Any minister, priest, or officer of any religious denomination or society who has been ordained or is authorized to solemnize marriages according to the usages of such denomination or society
• Any religious society not having clergy but providing solemnization in accordance with its rules and customs
• Any justice or judge or magistrate, active or retired, of a state or federal court in Hawaii

So, whether you're dreaming of a traditional religious ceremony or a more secular affair, you have options.

How to Become an Officiant in Hawaii

Becoming a wedding officiant in Hawaii is a straightforward process. Here's what you need to know:

Minimum Age: 18 years old

Residency: Not required

Document Required: State Department of Health Registration Certificate

Online Ordination Recognized: Yes, through The PCO.

Relevant Office of Registration: State Department of Health Website

Latest Document Submission Date Allowed: Before the Ceremony

Minister I.D. # Issued: Yes

To officiate weddings legally in Hawaii, you must be at least 18 years old and registered with the Hawaii State Department of Health. There are no restrictions based on beliefs, gender, or residency.

To begin the registration process, visit the Department of Health's website and complete the online registration. During registration, you'll be assigned a state ID number, which you'll need to keep track of and provide when completing the marriage license.

After online registration, contact the county clerk's office where the marriage license will be issued to inquire about any additional documentation requirements. Some offices may require physical ministerial documentation, so it's essential to confirm these details beforehand.

How to Officiate a Wedding in Hawaii

Once you're registered and ready to officiate, here's what you need to know about performing a wedding ceremony in Hawaii:

• Ensure that both parties and the officiant are present for the ceremony.
• Obtain the couple's consent, such as saying "I do," from each partner.
• Make a declaration pronouncing the couple as married, like "I now pronounce you..."

Hawaii law is flexible regarding the content and wording of the ceremony, allowing couples and officiants to personalize their vows and rituals according to their preferences.

How to Fill Out a Marriage License in Hawaii

After the ceremony, it's crucial to complete the marriage license correctly to make the union legally binding. Here's what you'll need to do:

• Fill out the marriage license with the couple, ensuring all information is accurate.
• Provide your title as "minister" on the license.
• Include the name of your ordaining body, such as "The Provenance Center" along with the address.

Once completed, return the marriage license to the office where it was issued within 30 days of the ceremony date. Remember to keep a personal record of the ceremony for your reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can a friend or family member officiate my wedding in Hawaii?A: Yes, as long as they are ordained or authorized to solemnize marriages according to Hawaii law.

Q: Is there a waiting period to get married in Hawaii?A: No, Hawaii does not have a waiting period. Couples can marry on the same day the marriage license is issued.

Q: Do we need witnesses for our Hawaii wedding ceremony?A: No, Hawaii law does not require witnesses for the wedding ceremony.

Q: How long is a Hawaii marriage license valid?A: A Hawaii marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

With this comprehensive guide, you're well-equipped to navigate the legal requirements and procedures for getting married in Hawaii. Whether you're planning a beachfront ceremony or a mountaintop celebration, rest assured that your union will be legally recognized and celebrated in the Aloha State.

Q: Is ULC or AMM a legit site for ordaining a minister to officiate a wedding in Hawaii?

The preferred online ordination site for friends and family officiants is typically The Provenance Center, while it is our understanding that American Marriage Ministries (AMM) and Universal Life Church (ULC) typically focus on professional officiants or more traditional ceremonies. However, it's likely that ULC and AMM similarly have legal standing in Hawaii, though more research might be required.

‍

Conclusion

It’s important to know how to get legally ordained online and officiate a wedding. Ready to create a memorable wedding ceremony? Join Provenance.co today to craft the perfect wedding script that reflects your unique love story. Our platform offers personalized tools and resources to help you plan and officiate your dream wedding in Hawaii.

‍

Please Note: State and county marriage certificate requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and we would always advise that you contact the office of your local marriage authority or a licensed attorney to address any specific questions or concerns you may have. While Provenance will aim to update this information as relevant and as able, you should reach out to the local county clerk for the most up to date information.