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What Makes
Our Marriage Legal?
Every state in the
United States requires a license to legalize Marriage.
You cannot get married without it. We'll tell you how to
get that license in a minute. But follow the way this
works...So you have your license. Now you get married.
After the ceremony, both spouses and the Officiant sign
the marriage license (some states require a witness).
The Officiant then files for a certified copy of the
marriage license and a marriage certificate. Often we
get email asking the difference between the
Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate.
The marriage certificate is more of a keepsake. You
will receive an original of both the certified license
and the marriage certificate. This can take anywhere
from to two weeks to a months time. Ask for a few extra
copies of the marriage license (there is an extra fee)
because whomever decides to change his/her name, must
provide an original copy for official name changes with
your Social Security and Driver's license.
However, obtaining
the Marriage License is the responsibility of the bride
and groom to-be. Typically, (and we emphasize
typically because rules vary from state to state
and even county to county) both parties about to marry
need to sign the application in person. Where do you
go?...to your local town/city clerk's office or
sometimes you must file in the county in which you plan
to marry. It's always a good idea to call ahead of time
to find out the exact requirements. For example, proof
of identity is always a requirement, but this may be
your driver's license or your birth certificate.
Sometimes there is a waiting period after
applying and before receiving your license and
sometimes there is a waiting period after receiving
your license...can get a little tricky. And those of you
who can't wait to tie the knot, there's plenty of states
that require no waiting at all, not to mention, no blood
test.
For general
marriage license requirements we've provided you with a
state by state chart. This is for general
information only. Remember, this is no substitute for
calling your town/city/county clerk's office. Find out
the specifics and don't wait until the last minute. One
last thing...you'll most likely have to pay the license
fee in cash. You're better off not having to deal with
waiting for your check to clear. Most don't accept
personal checks anyway. |
