A Complete Step by Step to Legally Getting Married in Kauai, Hawaii
- Rachel Crane
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Getting married in Kauai offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a relaxed island vibe. If you’re planning a Hawaii wedding or a Kauai elopement, understanding the legal steps is essential to make your special day smooth and stress-free. This guide walks you through the entire process of legally getting married in Kauai, from obtaining your marriage license to saying "I do".
How to Obtain a Marriage License in Kauai
Before you can say "I do," you need a valid marriage license issued by the State of Hawaii. Here’s what you need to know:
Where to apply: You can apply online at:
Please be sure to write down or print your authorization code/Locator ID.
Meet with an agent in Hawaii: Both parties must appear in person to apply. Meet in person within 30 days of your ceremony date. You will verify in person all the details in your marriage license application form, which includes personal details such as full names, birthplaces, and parents’ names.
No residency requirement: You don’t have to be a resident of Hawaii to get a marriage license here.
Waiting period: There is no waiting period. You can marry immediately after receiving your license.
License validity: The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Cost: The fee for a marriage license in Hawaii is $65.
Tip: Bring valid government-issued photo IDs such as passports or driver’s licenses to the meeting. If you have been previously married also bring proof of original divorce decree or death certificate. Legal age to enter into legal marriage or civil union is 18 years.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Married Legally in Kauai
Step 1: Apply for Your Marriage License
Apply online or visit the Kauai Department of Health office.
Complete the marriage license application with your partner.
Pay the $65 fee.
Receive your marriage license in person with an agent in the state of Hawaii up to 1 year from application date. Within 30 days of your ceremony date.
Step 2: Choose Your Officiant
In Hawaii, your marriage must be solemnized by an authorized officiant.
Options include:
Ministers, reverends, priests, or rabbis
Civil celebrants or justices of the peace
If you’re planning a Hawaii elopement or Kauai elopement, many couples hire local officiants who specialize in intimate ceremonies. I have an incredible list of trusted vendors I can share with you.
Step 3: Plan Your Ceremony
Decide on your wedding location. Kauai offers stunning beaches, gardens, and resorts. I am happy to help you choose the perfect location & timing for the ceremony & timeline for your day.
Confirm the date and time with your officiant & photographer.
Step 4: Hold the Ceremony
Exchange vows in front of your officiant and witnesses (can be the officiant & photographer).
bring your marriage license worksheet to the ceremony to give to the officiant.
The officiant will complete the marriage license with the ceremony details.
Step 5: Return the Marriage License
The officiant will file the paperwork & will return the completed marriage license to the issuing Department of Health office within 10 days.
Once processed, you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.
Important Details About the Marriage License Form
The marriage license form in Hawaii asks for:
Full legal names of both parties
Dates and places of birth
Parents’ full names and birthplaces
Current addresses
Signatures of both parties
Make sure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Costs and Fees to Expect
Marriage license fee: $65
Certified copy of marriage certificate: Approximately $7 per copy
Officiant fees: Vary widely depending on the officiant and ceremony type; expect $200 to $500 for a simple ceremony
Additional costs: Florals, photography, and other wedding services are extra. Myself or the Officiant will purchase the location permits for your wedding day.
I hope this guide to getting legally married on Kauai is helpful to you.
Please reach out to inquire about your Elopement / Wedding date. I am a wealth of information to share with you as far as local vendors or beautiful locations.
Mahalo,
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