Every state in the U.S. requires two people who wish to marry to obtain a marriage license. Requirements vary, however, from state to state, so you should check with your local municipality to find out what information you need to provide.
Application in Person
Most states require both applicants to apply in person, meaning you have to appear physically at the office that issues marriage licenses in your county. Some allow you to fill out the application online, but you must still appear with all your documentation and provide a signature.
In almost all cases, you will apply with the county you live in. You can usually obtain a marriage license application from your County Court Clerks, County of Orphans Court, County Registrar, County Marriage License Bureau, County Registrar of Wills or County Registrar of Records.
Age Requirements
In most cases, both parties who wish to marry must be at least 18 years of age. However, as of 2010, Nebraska has set the age at 19 and Mississippi at 21. Anyone younger than those ages in those states must have parental consent to obtain a marriage license.
Every U.S. state also allows individuals who are younger than 18 to marry, but they must have parental consent at the very least. In some states, and depending on their exact age, individuals may need a court order or other supporting documents.
Identification
All states require valid identification in order to apply for a marriage license. You must usually provide an original Social Security card, as well as a driver's license, birth certificate or passport.
Proof of Dissolution
If either or both parties who wish to be married have been married previously, you most likely will have to provide proof of dissolution, or proof that you are legally divorced. It's illegal in the United States to be married to more than one person at the same time.
Waiting Period
Some states require a period of time to elapse before approving a license application and granting a marriage license. For example, Mississippi has a three-day waiting period. A total of 22 states require a waiting period of anywhere between one and six days.
