If you’re newly engaged, the first thing on your mind is probably planning your wedding. But don’t forget about one of the most important aspects of getting married: getting your marriage license!
Here’s a guide to what you need to know in order to get your license and start planning your big day.
What Is A Marriage License?
A marriage license is a document that two people who want to get married obtain from a government official. This document is needed in order for the couple to be legally married.
The process of getting this license varies from country to country but typically does not require much.
In some countries, marriage licenses are available online, while in others, couples must appear in person to apply for a marriage license.
Once this is issued, the couple is then free to get married. After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license and submit it to the appropriate government authority, who will then issue a certified copy of the marriage certificate. In most cases, this license is valid for a specific period of time, after which it expires.
Some couples choose to get a marriage license as a way to solidify their commitment to each other, even if they are not necessarily planning to get married right away. Whereas others see it as a necessary step in the process of getting married.
Regardless of their choice, a marriage license is an essential part of getting married in the United States.
How To Obtain A Marriage License
Obtaining a marriage license is a fairly simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need to be at least 18 years of age.
Second, you will need to have all the required documentation. This typically includes a birth certificate, photo ID or passport, and proof of residency.
Third, you will need to pay the required fees. These can vary depending on your state or province.
Finally, you will need to wait a specified period of time before the license is issued. The waiting period is typically three days, but it can be longer or shorter depending on the jurisdiction.
Applying for a marriage license may not be the most romantic part of getting married, but it is a necessary one.
The Requirements For Getting A Marriage License
Love is in the air! Or at least it will be once you jump through a few hoops to obtain a marriage license. Every state has different requirements, but there are a few things that are generally required in order to obtain a license.
First, you will need to find a licensed officiant who is authorized to perform marriages in your state.
Then, you will need to fill out an application which will require some personal information like your full legal name, birthdate, and social security number. You may also need to provide proof of citizenship, residency, or age.
Once the application is complete, you will then submit it to the county clerk’s office along with the required application fee.
After fulfilling these requirements, you will receive your marriage license and be on the next step of your marriage journey!
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of getting a marriage license may surprise you. In some states, the cost can be as low as $30, while in others it can be as high as $200. However, the average cost is about $100.
The reason for such a wide range in prices mainly has to do with the state in which you live in. Some states require couples to complete pre-marital counseling or attend a waiting period before they can obtain a license, while other states do not have as many procedural requirements.
As a result, the cost of a marriage license can vary significantly from one state to another. For example, the cost of obtaining a California marriage license is anywhere from $70 to $91.
So if you are planning on tying the knot, be sure to check with your state’s licensing requirements to find out how much it will cost you.
How Long Is A Courthouse Marriage License Valid For?
Couples who are eager to tie the knot often ask how long a courthouse marriage license is valid for. The good news is that most are valid for 30 days. So if you tie the knot within a month of getting your license, you’re all set. Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to wait 30 days to get married.
If you’re eager to walk down the aisle, there’s no law that says you can’t do it the same day you get your license. Just be sure to check with your local courthouse to find out their policy on same-day marriages. And in case you were wondering, there’s no need to hurry to the courthouse after your ceremony.
Your marriage license is automatically registered once your officiant signs and submits it. So take your time and enjoy being newlyweds.
What To Do If You Lose Your License Or If It Expires
If you lose your marriage license or it expires, there is no need to panic. There are a few simple steps you can take to replace it.
First, contact the court that issued your license. They will likely have a replacement form that you can fill out and submit. In some cases, you may also need to provide a copy of your ID or other documentation.
Once you have submitted the necessary paperwork, the court will issue a new license. If your marriage license has expired, you will need to go through the same process to obtain a new one.
In either case, it is best to plan ahead and apply for a replacement license well in advance of your wedding day to avoid any unnecessary stress.
So there you have it, everything you need to know about marriage licenses! If you are looking to get married in the near future, be sure to check out your state’s requirements and costs.
The process of obtaining a marriage license is usually pretty straightforward, but it’s important to allow enough time for all the paperwork to be processed so that your big day in an extravagant and elegant wedding venue runs smoothly.
