For many, getting married is one of the most important and exciting days of their lives. Before you can walk down the aisle, every state in the U.S. requires a license to make the marriage legal. While the process of applying for a marriage license may feel stressful and tedious, planning ahead will ensure you have a license in your possession when it comes time to say your vows.
Step 1
Contact the county clerk's office in the county where you plan to wed to determine specific and updated license application requirements for that area.
Step 2
Make an appointment with your doctor to get tested for venereal diseases, German measles, tuberculosis and sickle-cell anemia, if required by your state. Keep a copy of the test results as well as your immunization records to bring with you when you apply.
Step 3
Gather any documents required by your state. Depending on where you live, you many need proof of the termination of any previous marriage, photo IDs, and birth certificates in order to apply for a marriage license.
Step 4
Visit the county clerk's office at least one month prior to your scheduled ceremony to complete the application and turn in your documents and the license fee. Request a certified copy of the license, as this will serve as legal proof of your marriage. You and your fiancee will both need to be present at the time of application in most states.
Step 5
Bring your marriage license with you to the ceremony and have it signed by the required number of witnesses, you, your spouse and the officiant. The individual who performs the marriage must send a copy of the signed certificate to the appropriate state or county agency.
Tips and Warnings
- Many states require a waiting period of several days between the time the license is issued and the time of the ceremony. Applying even earlier ensures you have enough time to correct any problems.
- Most states require consent of a parent or judge to marry if you are under the age of 18.
Things You'll Need
- Photo ID
- Birth Certificate
- Proof of termination of previous marriage, if necessary
- License fee
