Quick notes
- In most states, there is a waiting period between the time you apply for a marriage license and the time you can get married.
- The documents you need to bring with you when you apply for a marriage license vary from state to state.
- However, you will typically need to bring a valid government-issued ID, a certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of residency, and parental consent if you are under the age of 18.
Before you can say “I do,” you need to get a marriage license. This legal document is required in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The process of obtaining a marriage license can vary from state to state, but there are some general steps that you can follow.
1. Check the Requirements in Your State
The first step is to check the requirements in your state. You can usually find this information on the website of your state’s vital records office. Some states have residency requirements, while others do not. You may also need to provide proof of age, identity, and parental consent if you are under the age of 18.
2. Gather the Necessary Documents
Once you know the requirements in your state, you can start gathering the necessary documents. These typically include:
- A valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
- A certified copy of your birth certificate
- Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- Parental consent, if you are under the age of 18
3. Apply for a Marriage License
You can apply for a marriage license in person at your local county clerk’s office or vital records office. You will need to bring the required documents with you. The application process usually takes a few minutes, and you will be issued a marriage license on the spot.
4. Pay the Fee
There is usually a fee for obtaining a marriage license. The fee varies from state to state, but it typically ranges from $10 to $100.
5. Wait the Required Waiting Period
In most states, there is a waiting period between the time you apply for a marriage license and the time you can get married. The waiting period varies from state to state, but it is typically between 24 hours and 30 days.
6. Get Married!
Once the waiting period has expired, you can get married. You will need to bring your marriage license with you to the ceremony. The officiant will perform the ceremony and sign the marriage license.
7. File the Marriage License
After the ceremony, you will need to file the marriage license with the county clerk‘s office or vital records office. The office will record the marriage and issue you a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
Tips for Getting a Marriage License
Here are a few tips for getting a marriage license:
- Apply for your marriage license early. This will give you plenty of time to take care of any problems that may arise.
- Bring all of the required documents with you when you apply for your marriage license.
- Be prepared to pay the fee for the marriage license.
- Be aware of the waiting period in your state.
- Get married within the validity period of your marriage license.
- File the marriage license with the county clerk’s office or vital records office after the ceremony.
Wrapping Up: Ensuring a Smooth Marriage License Process
Obtaining a marriage license is an important step in the wedding planning process. By following these steps, you can ensure that the process goes smoothly and that you are able to get married on your desired date.
Questions You May Have
Q: How long does it take to get a marriage license?
A: The time it takes to get a marriage license varies from state to state. In most states, you can get a marriage license on the same day that you apply. However, there may be a waiting period before you can get married.
Q: Can I get a marriage license online?
A: In some states, you can apply for a marriage license online. However, you will still need to go to the county clerk‘s office or vital records office to pick up the license and pay the fee.
Q: What do I need to bring with me when I apply for a marriage license?
A: The documents you need to bring with you when you apply for a marriage license vary from state to state. However, you will typically need to bring a valid government-issued ID, a certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of residency, and parental consent if you are under the age of 18.
Q: How much does a marriage license cost?
A: The fee for a marriage license varies from state to state. However, it typically ranges from $10 to $100.
Q: What is the waiting period for getting married?
A: The waiting period for getting married varies from state to state. However, it is typically between 24 hours and 30 days.