The Best Guide to Marriage Certificates and Licenses
It's easy to get swept up in wedding planning. There are so many fun and memorable parts, like picking your gown and choosing the music for your first dance. While the ceremony and reception are undoubtedly the main focus of your efforts, there is still one less exciting but very important component you shouldn't overlook. We're referring to marriage licenses and certificates.
To make your marriage legal, you must obtain an official certificate via a license. Depending on where you live, this government process can take some time. Therefore, it's best to learn how to get a marriage license early to avoid any future delays or issues.
How to Get a Marriage License and Certificate
First, what is a marriage license? If it sounds important and formal, it's because it is. A couple must apply for this legal document before they say, "I do." You'll sign the document during or after your wedding ceremony if granted. Your officiant should then send it back to the county, and a certificate can be issued. Applying for a license certifies that you can legally marry your partner.
At the same time, the certificate validates that you actually went through with the wedding. Both of these documents are necessary to be married "in the eyes of the law" and are vital if you plan on changing your name.
Here's How to Obtain Them
Choose your wedding date and location: Knowing the details of your wedding, like where and when is necessary for applying for a marriage license. The license will need to be filed in the county where your wedding is taking place. After you apply, you have a set amount of time before your license expires. Often, this is around 90 days. Don't file for your license too early but don't wait until the last minute either. Generally, it can take a few days to receive the license after you file an application. Most couples apply at least one week before their wedding.
It's important to note that some states have guidelines about how soon you can marry after you get your license. For example, Texas mandates you wait a minimum of 72 hours to get married after you apply for your license. It's a good idea to check in with your county clerk to learn about rules, regulations, and timelines as soon as you know the date and location of your wedding.
Take a trip to the county clerk: You and your partner should both plan on going to your county clerk, the most common place couples apply for their marriage licenses. Gather all necessary documents, like proof of your identity via a driver's license, birth certificate, information about your parents (full names, birth dates, etc.), a witness, and a certificate of divorce or death if this isn't your first wedding. Required items can vary by state, so do your research.
Once everything is obtained, plan to spend about an hour at the clerk's office. You must turn in your paperwork, go over it with a staff member, and pay a fee. In some states, you can leave the clerk's office with your license in hand, while others send it in the mail. As a side note, if you want to change your name, you might be able to do it while you are at the office applying for your license. You'll keep your maiden name until the marriage is official, but you can inform the court beforehand what your new last name will be.
Obtain signatures: Plan on taking your licensee to your wedding because you'll need to obtain a few signatures. Different states mandate different signatures. However, most places have the following similar requirements. First, both partners will need to be present and sign. Doing this right after the ceremony before the reception can be a good idea. Next, your officiant (the person who legally married you in your ceremony) will need to put their signature on the license. Finally, you'll need at least two witnesses. Witnesses can usually be friends or family members, often who are aged 18 or older.
Everyone must be physically present during the signing. Thankfully, marriage licenses are clearly laid out, including who needs to sign where, and what information is required. Still, taking care of this before the party starts is a good idea.
Make sure your license is turned in: Finally, you'll need your license turned in to the county. It's often the officiant's designated responsibility to either take the license to the county clerk or mail it in after the wedding.
Fortunately, most officiants can handle this without issue. After the county has your license, you can expect your certificate or certified copy within a few days. Usually, it will be mailed to you, but some locations require that you pick it up in person. Be sure to hold onto these certified copies because you'll need them to change your marital status or name for insurance, Social Security, passport, bank account, and much more.
Formalities You Don't Want to Forget: While applying for a marriage license and certificate isn't the most enjoyable part of a wedding, it is vital if you want to be legally married. Do your research ahead of time so you can have all your ducks in a row before the big day. Then, you can spend time celebrating instead of stressing.
FAQs
Is it necessary to obtain a marriage license?
If you want to be legally married and able to change your name or marital status, you must obtain an official license.
How much fee do I have to pay to get my marriage certificate and license?
Fees vary by state, usually ranging from $20 to $100. Even within states, certain counties can charge more or less than others.
What documents are needed to get married in the USA?
Required documents can vary depending on where you apply to get married. Most locations require proof of identity like a driver's license, birth certificates, parental information, and legal documents for proof of death or divorce if you were previously married.
How long does it take to get a marriage license?
Most filings for a marriage license take at least a week. However, many only last 90 days after they are granted. Don't wait until the last minute but don't apply earlier than 90 days before your wedding either.
