Vital Records & Certificates in Hilo, HawaiiHawaii County Clerk Office

Hilo residents need vital records for diverse island life activities: enrolling children in Hawaii DOE schools, applying for federal employment, obtaining security clearances, proving identity for banking, processing insurance claims, handling estate matters, and traveling to the mainland or internationally. With the Big Island’s unique status as both a tourist destination and permanent community, certified documents are essential for navigating modern life in this Pacific paradise.

Hilo birth certificates are processed through the Hawaii County Clerk Office at 333 Kilauea Avenue, conveniently located in downtown Hilo near the historic courthouse. Island babies born at Hilo Medical Center, Ka’u Hospital, or other Big Island medical facilities have their births registered with Hawaii County. Certified copies are crucial for enrolling children in Hawaii Department of Education schools, applying for keiki (children) to travel between islands, and obtaining federal documents. The county maintains meticulous records for all Hawaii County births, with staff familiar with both Hawaiian and Western naming conventions. Processing times are typically efficient, with same-day service available for walk-in requests during regular business hours at competitive island rates.

Couples planning island weddings at breathtaking venues like Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, or beachfront locations at Richardson Ocean Park obtain marriage licenses from the Hawaii County Clerk Office on Kilauea Avenue. Hawaii’s tropical setting attracts destination weddings year-round, with many ceremonies taking place at sunrise on Coconut Island or sunset along Hilo Bay. The state requires no waiting period once licenses are issued, perfect for couples arriving from the mainland for beach ceremonies. Local wedding coordinators often assist with the licensing process, understanding both Hawaii’s requirements and cultural traditions for island celebrations.

Death certificates for Big Island residents are handled by the Hawaii County Clerk Office in downtown Hilo. Whether deaths occur at Hilo Medical Center, other island healthcare facilities, or at home, certified copies are essential for handling estate matters, insurance claims, and federal benefits. The county office understands the unique challenges of island living and works efficiently to provide necessary documentation for families dealing with loss while managing affairs across multiple time zones with mainland institutions.

Divorce records for Hawaii County residents are maintained through the Third Circuit Court system, with certified copies available from the Hawaii County Clerk Office. Island life brings unique considerations to legal proceedings, and the court system accommodates the challenges of serving papers across vast ocean distances. Certified copies are necessary for remarriage, name changes, and various legal matters, with staff understanding both local and federal documentation requirements.

Visit the Hawaii County Clerk Office at 333 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720, located in the heart of downtown Hilo near the historic courthouse and Hilo Bay. The office operates Monday through Friday, 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM (Hawaii Standard Time year-round). Parking is available along Kilauea Avenue and nearby streets, though downtown can be busy during farmers market days. From Hilo Airport, take Highway 200 to Kamehameha Avenue, then turn toward downtown. The office is within walking distance of Liliuokalani Gardens and major hotels along Banyan Drive. Payment accepted includes cash, checks, and credit cards, with staff understanding both local and visitor needs.

From Hilo Airport, take Highway 200 west to Kamehameha Avenue, then head toward downtown Hilo and Hilo Bay. Turn right on Kilauea Avenue to reach 333 Kilauea Avenue.