Getting your marriage license is one of the most important things to do when planning a wedding. This is what enables you to get married at any recognized marriage institution, the world over. A license to marry is what it is. It’s not a wedding certificate and doesn’t in any way mean you are yet married. It is well issued by the government as proof that you can get married to your partner. Find all the steps to get one and its importance in this post.
Commonly Asked Questions
What Is a Marriage License?
This is a document that you applying for to the government. It is with respect to your wish to get married to your partner. You will apply to the license bureau and wait. Once it is fit approved, then you and your partner can get married.
Is a Marriage License Necessary?
A marriage license is very necessary, because of its many benefits. If you’re thinking of how to marry in New York or America at all, get a license.
- It helps annul any other marriage relationship until either of you are not together anymore.
- It’s proof of legal binding.
- It comes in handy when you have to change your last name quickly.
- Also, it helps you access benefits from your spouse.
How Long Is A Marriage License Valid?
A marriage license validity lasts for 60 days going by the state of New York. This begins from a day after which it is rightfully issued. For the military, it’s 180 days. This is according to the state of New York. A destination wedding license will last for 6 months. Do your diligence in checking out information as it applies to other states or countries.
What happens if you lose your marriage license?
If you happen to misplace your marriage license, don’t worry! Just reach out to the office that issued it, and they can help you get a duplicate. Keep in mind that the process and fees for obtaining a replacement license might differ depending on where you got married.
Can you change the date or location on a marriage license?
It’s typically not possible to change the date or location once your marriage license is issued. But if you will need to make adjustments, reach out to the issuing authority directly. They can provide guidance and inform you about any available options for making changes.
How long does it take to receive a marriage license?
The time can vary. Usually, you’ll get marriage license on the same day. To get accurate processing times, it’s a good idea to contact the issuing authority in your specific location.
Can same-sex couples obtain a marriage license?
Yes, in countries where same-sex marriage is legal. It’s essential to stay informed about the requirements and guidelines specific to the place where you plan to get married. Be sure to check the specific requirements in your jurisdiction to ensure a smooth process.
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What Do You Need To Have To Get A Marriage License?
There are certain things you need to apply for a marriage license. But before that, let us set some facts straight. If you’re thinking of getting married in some places, you should know this. You may not be easily granted a marriage if you’re underage. There can’t be a marriage if you are not legally divorced.
If it’s a place where same-sex marriage isn’t allowed, you won’t get a license. Lastly, you won’t be easily granted a license in most places, if you’re related by blood.
The best place to do that is the location where you’re getting married. For instance, a marriage license in NYC is best gotten from the county clerk’s office. Other places are the town hall or City Hall. You can also call the local government office or browse the website for information.
Many states have the option of filling out their application online. They can go pick it in person after they submit their documentation.
The things you need include:
- Photo ID: A driver’s license or passport will do.
- Proof of residency or citizenship of the country.
- Birth certificate to find out that you are eligible for marriage age.
- Death certificate if widowed.
- Divorce decree if divorced.
- The court or parental consent in some countries, if underage.
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Steps Of Procuring A Marriage License
You cannot get married until 24 hours after the license gets issued. You can only upturn this if you get a waiver from the court. Again, a wedding license lasts for only 60 days, which begins to count, a day after it’s approved. For the military, they have up to 180 days, due to deployments.
You can only marry in the state where you have rightly issued a license. The waiting time before you to get a license is 1-6 days. A non-impediment certificate is well required for a destination wedding. This is proof that you have no legal issues from your country. It is valid for 6 months.
Now, the steps:
Go to the town clerk’s office to fill out an application. You and your spouse must be present with the following documents.
- Name.
- Resident address
- State, city, and zip code.
- Country of birth and birth certificate
- Name and country of parents
- Social security number.
- Presentation of Gonorrhea, HIV, and other STI-free certificates. This is as against blood tests initially asked for in the United States. You can also fill it out online but you will complete the process at the office. This is after presenting your documents.
Pay the marriage application fee of $35. This is how much it costs to get a license in NY. In other places, it goes up to $115. The city clerk only receives either a money order or a credit card.
Receive a marriage license when the application is complete.
Apply for a judicial waiver. This is optional.
Turn it in and register after the wedding.
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Can I Have A Wedding Without A Marriage License?
This and more questions are always asked. Questions like “what happens if a marriage license is never turned in?”
Well, your marriage is valid, and in the eyes of the law too. But your privileges are quite limited. Failure of having a license or turning it in will hamper you from the following…
- Buying a home together with your spouse.
- Getting immigration benefits by spousal virtue.
- Change of the last name
- Spousal health benefits, and more. Quickly change your last name.
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The Difference Between a Marriage License And Marriage Certificate
Marriage license vs. marriage certificate is one distinction lots of intending couples can’t make. The license is government-issued documentation you fill out in the application for marriage. When approved, you are eligible to marry your spouse.
The marriage certificate is actually issued some weeks after the wedding. It is government and public proof that you’re married and it’s legal.
Can You Get Married Online?
Absolutely! You can get married online, as long as you have your marriage license. The reason why it’s being quite frowned upon is to avoid mishaps. Mishaps like getting ensnared into marriage or taking advantage of status to gain residency. The government also wants to be sure that the couples getting married are willing. But the truth is that you don’t have to travel the world to get married.
Below are the steps to get married online, and legally.
- Complete a proxy form on platforms like WedWeb or Simpleproxymarriage. Tender all documents requested like in procurement of marriage license.
- Pay the form and license fee.
- They will mail you the marriage form.
- Complete the forms and return them.
- They will file the paperwork for you at the courts.
- You will receive your marriage license.
- Choose your officiant from their pool of ordained celebrants.
- Get married!
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Marriage License Near Me: Advice & Useful Info
NYC Marriage License
Documents you need (you can bring only one, but for both of you):
- a driver’s license
- passport
- or birth certificate
Both you and your partner should head to the City Clerk’s office together. You’ll get an application form and will need to pay a fee (around $35). Then wait for 24 hours while your license is processed. The license itself remains valid for 60 days, giving you ample time to plan your special day. For more detailed instructions and any additional requirements, it’s always best to check the official NYC marriage license website or reach out to the City Clerk’s office directly. Remember, procedures may change, so it’s important to stay updated before proceeding with your plans.
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Texas Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid identification (a driver’s license or passport)
- social Security numbers
- a proof of age (birth certificate)
Then visit the county clerk’s office together and complete an application form. Then you’ll need to pay a fee, typically around $60, and sign a confirming that you meet the legal requirements for marriage. You’ll receive your marriage license after 72 hours, which is valid for 90 days.
Florida Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid photo identification (driver’s license or passport)
- social Security numbers
- proof of age (birth certificate)
Visit the nearest county clerk’s office with both partners present. Complete an application form, pay the fee (around $93), and wait for the license. It will be issued usually on the same day. Florida residents don’t have to wait, but non-residents will wait for three days. The license is valid for 60 days. You can use it to get married anywhere in the state of Florida.
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Las Vegas Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid identification (driver’s license or passport)
- proof of age
You and your partner must visit the Clark County Marriage License Bureau. The fee is $77, payable in cash. You’ll get an application form to fill out. After that, you’ll immediately receive your marriage license. The bureau operates seven days a week, from 8 am to midnight, making it convenient for couples. Remember, the license is valid for one year, allowing you to tie the knot in Las Vegas’s iconic wedding chapels or venues of your choice.
Ohio Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid identification documents (driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate)
- social Security numbers
Visit the local County Probate Court together, as both partners must apply in person. Pay the required fee (varies by county, usually around $50-$100) in cash. Complete the application form provided by the court clerk, providing personal details and information about any previous marriages. Wait for the 72 hours before the license is issued, which is valid for 60 days.
After the ceremony, return the completed license to the County Probate Court for recording and official registration.
Indiana Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid ID (driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate)
- Social Security numbers and birthplaces
You’ll need to visit the Clerk’s Office in the county where you plan to get married. Both partners must appear together. Pay the fee (varies by county), and complete an application form. After a three-day waiting period, your marriage license will be issued and valid for 60 days. Get married within that time frame, and remember to have two witnesses sign the license.
Los Angeles Marriage License
Documents you need:
- valid identification (driver’s license, passport)
- proof of age and legal presence (birth certificate, green card)
- Social Security number (if applicable).
Visit the County Clerk’s office, complete the application form, and pay the fee (around $90). Both partners must appear in person. After a short waiting period, typically 24 hours, you can pick up your marriage license. The license is valid for 90 days and allows you to legally marry within Los Angeles County.
Although a marriage license is not necessary to get married, it is important. The license bureau is easy and quick to access in any state. The waiting time is short these days, and you can pick it up the same day. As your wedding preparation is important, so is your license to marry. You want to have your happily ever after, knowing that it’s all documented!
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