For a marriage to be legally recognized in the United States, the marrying couple must get a marriage license. This marriage license is usually issued by legal representatives of the state in which you are getting married. Although many of the steps for obtaining a marriage license are common to every state, there are certain requirements---such as obtaining a blood test, fees required for filing the license, or any mandatory waiting period required prior to performing the marriage ceremony---that may vary from state to state. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for your state prior to setting your wedding date.
Step 1
Contact your local county clerk's office or county court office to determine the available locations for obtaining a marriage license. In most states, residents can obtain a marriage license in any county in the state, but if you are getting married in state in which you do not reside, you will probably need to obtain your marriage license in the specific county where the ceremony will be performed.
Step 2
Download the marriage license application, if available, and complete it at home. Some states require you complete the application in person at the time of applying; completing your application in advance, if possible, will help you spend less time waiting when you visit the authorizing agency.
Step 3
Take your completed application, official copies of both you and your future spouse's birth certificates and your driver's licenses with you to the location of the agency authorized to issue marriage licenses. Almost every state requires the marrying couple to submit the application in person and to provide at least one piece of legally accepted identification proving your age and identity. If you are under the age of 18 but older than 15, you may also need to be accompanied by your legal guardians who will be required to provide written consent.
Step 4
Submit the required paperwork and other documentation to the county clerk or other official agent for their review. Once they have approved the paperwork, they will request a cash or check payment of the licensing fee. After paying this fee, you will be given a marriage license. This license must be signed by the ceremony officiate and a witness, and returned after the wedding in order to obtain your actual certificate of marriage.
Tips and Warnings
- If you've been married previously, it's a good idea to bring a copy of your divorce decree when you apply for your marriage license. Some states require you present a certified copy to prove your status before they will issue your new marriage license.
- Most states have certain restrictions and requirements in terms of underage marriage; if you are younger than 18, it is a good idea to contact a lawyer to verify the laws governing underage marriage in your state.
