Before you can get hitched, one of the required documents that you must get hold of is the marriage license. It’s a document issued by a governmental authority that gives permission to a couple to officially get married. Its validity timeframe, which is usually from about 30 to 60 days, depends on the state location where the couple is going to exchange vows. Apart from the validity period, the requirements for marriage license application and waiting time period also depends on the state. You have to remember though that this document only serves as a proof that you are legally allowed to be married. It is not a proof that you’re married already. Since there is a waiting time for the license to be issued and a validity period as well, you would want to get your marriage license just in time to avoid any problems. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Tip # 1 – Apply early but not too early
It’s never a good idea to wait until the last minute before you file the application for your marriage license. It’s recommended that you get it a month or two before the schedule of your big day. Don’t do it earlier than this since most marriage licenses are only valid for 30 to 60 days. If you don’t hold the wedding in that time window, the license will expire and you need to repeat the entire application process. Since every state has its own waiting time and validity periods, you must know about these things first to ensure that you get the marriage license in time for your wedding date.
Tip # 2 – Learn the procedure
It’s not enough that you know how long you should wait for the application process or how long the license is valid, you must also know the entire procedure so you don’t lose your way around. Again, the procedure for getting marriage license differs in every state. In fact, some counties impose additional rules and restrictions. Because of this, you should be aware of the step-by-step procedure so you don’t encounter any problem.
Tip # 3 – Be sure you’re at legal age to marry
Some couples encounter problems getting the marriage license because of the age. Age requirement is something that you can’t overlook. For example, if you’re getting married in Nebraska, you must be 19 or older to be issued with a marriage license. In some states, young people are allowed to be married if they have permission from their parents.
Tip # 4 – Prepare the requirements
Like everything else, requirements also depend on the rules of the state where you’re getting married. But generally, what you’ll be asked to provide are your valid driver’s license number and Social Security number. If you’re not a citizen of this country, you may also need birth certificate and passport. Don’t rely on this list of general requirements and be sure to inquire what the state’s specific requirements are and prepare them as soon as you can. Most of the delays in marriage license applications are due to lack of or missing required documents.
Tip # 5 – Be ready with the fees
The fee for marriage license application varies from $4 to $80. But most require a fee of about $40. Prepare this amount before you even file for the marriage license application to avoid any unnecessary delays.
Tip # 6 – Know where you’re going to apply
In most cases, you’ll need to apply at the county clerk office. Usually, this can be found in the state court offices. There are some states however that would require you to get marriage license from a registered chapel. Find out if you need an appointment to apply so you can call ahead. Inquire about the county clerk’s office hours and get there early.
Tip # 7 – Get a blood test
Blood test used to be a requirement for all states. But nowadays, only 12 states require you to undergo this test as part of the marriage license application. If the state where you’re getting married requires this, you and your spouse-to-be should undergo it to find out about the possible effects of Rh incompatibility.
The marriage license is not only important because it allows you to get married. It’s also essential because it is a requirement for getting marriage certificate, which is the proof that your wedding is officially recognized.
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