Yesterday, we completed looking at the marriage laws in the 48 contiguous states and today, we complete the set by journeying north to Alaska and across the Pacific to the islands of Hawaii. So let’s get started and thanks for joining me on our journey through 50 states worth of marriage laws and licenses.
Alaska
Obtaining a marriage license in Alaska is pretty straightforward. You will need a picture ID to present when you turn in your application. However, because some locales are pretty remote from a marriage license office, you can submit an application via postal mail or fax machine. That application will need to be witnessed by a notary public.
Alaska has no residency requirement. You will also need a certified copy of your divorce decree if you have been divorced less than 60 days when you apply for your marriage license. There is a $25 fee associated with applying for your marriage license and a 3-business day waiting period after you have the license. You will not need a blood test.
Alaska does not allow for:
- Covenant Marriage
- Proxy Marriage
- Cousin Marriage
- Common Law Marriage
- Same Sex Marriage
Applicants under the age of 18 will need both parents present to provide their approval. Your marriage license will also be valid for 90 days in Alaska. To obtain a copy of your Alaska marriage certificate:
Bureau of Vital Statistics Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
P.O. Box 110610
Juneau, Alaska 99811-0610
Phone: 907-465-3393
Fax: 907-586-1877
Hawaii
In the beautiful islands of Hawaii, you need to show proof of age. If you are 19 or older, your photo identification is sufficient, but if you are 18 or younger, you will need a certified copy of your birth certificate. Because the islands are such an idyllic location for a destination wedding, it’s fortunate that you do not have to be a resident of Hawaii to obtain a marriage license there. You will need to provide the date of death or divorce if you were married previously.
Hawaii does not allow for:
- Covenant Marriage
- Proxy Marriage
- Common Law Marriage
- Same Sex Marriage
Cousin marriage is allowed under Hawaii law. You will not need a blood test or a waiting period to get married in Hawaii. The fee for a marriage license is about $60 and you will need cash. Applicants age 16 or 17 will need parental consent. Applicants 15 and younger will need judicial as well as parental consent.
Your marriage license is valid for 30 days. To obtain a copy of your Hawaii marriage certificate:
State Department of Health
Office of Health Status Monitoring
Issuance/Vital Statistics Section
P.O. Box 3378
Honolulu, HI 96801
The above information should be taken as guidance only, legal requirements for state and county marriage licenses change often. Please verify the necessary paperwork and more with the office of the county clerk prior to making your wedding plans