How to Obtain a Marriage License

Posted on July 23rd, 2009 by Carmelia

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A marriage license is a document issued by the government that allows a couple to get married. Getting a marriage license doesn’t mean that you are already married, but this is the first step you need to take in order to get married. A marriage license is usually valid only within 30 to 60 days, which means that the couple must get married before the allotted time period expires. Here are the other things you need to know about obtaining a marriage license.

Most states require you to be 18 years or older to be granted a license.
Contact your county clerk in the county or state where you will marry, even if you are a non-resident. Requirements vary in different states, so be sure that you take note and fulfill all of them.
You will be asked to fill up a marriage license application. Answer the application forms truthfully. Filling in false information is illegal in many states, and doing so may have you charged for perjury. After filling the marriage application, you will have to swear that all the information you have provided are true.
You may also be asked to bring necessary documents like your certified true birth certificate, your passport, driver’s license, divorce degree (if applicable) and photo IDs. Don’t show up without them.
A physical examination and a blood test may be required of you, so don’t forget to ask how many witnesses you will need when fulfilling this requirement. Most states require at least two witnesses.
The couple may also be required to attend premarital counseling classes. Attend them faithfully.
Be ready to pay anywhere between $25 to $100.
Some states will issue the marriage certificate immediately, while other states have a waiting period before releasing them.
Most states require the betrothed couple to both appear in person to claim the marriage application.
Once you’ve gotten your marriage license, don’t think you can marry the next day. Most states impose a 24-hour to three-day waiting period before you can actually marry.

Remember, the requirements for you to obtain a marriage license vary from country to country and state to state. Pay careful attention to what you need so that you’ll get your marriage license with minimum trouble.