How to Get Ordained in Hawaii & Officiate a Wedding (2026 Guide)

Get Ordained Online in Hawaii Now

Becoming ordained in Hawaii allows you to officiate a wedding for a friend, family member, or client, but Hawaii has specific statewide requirements you must complete before performing a ceremony. Whether you’ve been asked to officiate a wedding or want to perform a destination ceremony, this guide will walk you through how to get ordained in Hawaii, who can legally officiate a wedding, Hawaii licensing requirements, and the step-by-step process to officiate.

Is Online Ordination Legal in Hawaii?

Hawaii allows ordained ministers and religious officiants to perform weddings, including those ordained through online ministries. However, Hawaii requires officiants to be licensed by the state Department of Health before performing a wedding. This means you can get ordained online through UN Ministry, but you must also complete a state registration process before officiating.

Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the following individuals can officiate weddings: ordained ministers who are registered with the Hawaii Department of Health, judges and certain public officials, and authorized religious leaders. A common modern option is a friend or family member who becomes ordained online and then completes the state licensing process.

How to Get Ordained in Hawaii

Getting ordained is quick and can be completed entirely online, followed by required state registration.

Step 1: Complete Your Ordination

Fill out a short online form with your full legal name, email address, and state. This takes less than 2 minutes.

Step 2: Receive Your Ordination

Once completed, you’ll receive confirmation of ordination and an electronic certificate (PDF).

Step 3: Register with the Hawaii Department of Health

Hawaii requires officiants to register online with the Department of Health Electronic Marriage Registration System (EMRS). You will need to submit your ordination information and receive approval before performing any ceremony.

Step 4: Obtain Supporting Documents (Recommended)

Because registration is required, many officiants choose to obtain a printed certificate, letter of good standing, and minister ID card.

Hawaii Licensing Requirements

Hawaii has clear statewide requirements that must be followed.

Marriage License

The couple must obtain a marriage license through the Hawaii Department of Health. There is no waiting period, and licenses are typically issued quickly.

Officiant Registration

Officiants must be registered and approved by the state before performing a wedding.

Officiant Responsibilities

As the officiant, you must perform the ceremony, ensure both parties consent, and complete the marriage record online through the EMRS system.

Witness Requirements

Hawaii does not require witnesses for a valid marriage.

Filing the License

The officiant is responsible for submitting the completed marriage record electronically after the ceremony.

How to Officiate a Wedding in Hawaii

Once ordained and registered, officiating a wedding is straightforward.

Before the Ceremony

Confirm the couple has a valid marriage license, verify your EMRS registration, prepare your ceremony script, and ensure you have access to the online system.

During the Ceremony

You must conduct the ceremony and pronounce the couple married. Hawaii does not require specific wording, allowing flexibility to personalize the ceremony.

After the Ceremony

Complete and submit the marriage record online through the Hawaii system.

Why People Get Ordained in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular destination wedding locations in the world. Many people get ordained to officiate beach weddings, destination ceremonies, or meaningful celebrations for friends and family.

Get Ordained with UN Ministry

UN Ministry makes it simple to get ordained and begin the process of officiating weddings in Hawaii. You’ll receive instant online ordination, an electronic certificate, and optional official documents to support your state registration.

Get Ordained in Hawaii Today

Start your ordination in minutes and begin the process to officiate a wedding in Hawaii.

FAQ

Do I need to register as an officiant in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii requires officiants to be licensed by the state Department of Health.

Can a friend officiate a wedding in Hawaii?

Yes, but they must be ordained and registered with the state before performing the ceremony.

How long does it take to get ordained?

Ordination takes minutes, but state registration may take additional time.

Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Hawaii?

No, there is no waiting period.

Do I need documents to officiate?

Yes, documentation is typically required for state registration.