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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. |
