A marriage license is what you need to get married, so it’s one of the most exciting licenses you can obtain; certainly more exciting than the process you have to go through for a driver’s license.
That said, getting a marriage license isn’t always explained, and even when it is the process might still be confusing. This is because there can be slight variations in what’s required to get your license.
The good news is that we’re here to clear everything up. Read on to learn how to get a marriage license. We cover what this license is, where you can get one, as well as how to find a record of it.
What Is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is an important document for any couple that wants to get married. These licenses are required by the state and county before two people are wed in matrimony. Typically, marriage licenses are issued at the local or county level. Without these licenses, or if one expires, the couple will not be able to get married.
Most marriage licenses are valid for 30-60 days depending on the state. However, some exceptions may apply depending on the state or even the town.
What’s the Difference Between a Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate?
Marriage licenses and marriage certificates are not the same, even if they share a lot of information.
The key difference is that you have to apply for a marriage license before you get married, and a marriage certificate is for after you’re married. Depending on the day and how long it’s been, marriage licenses and marriage certificates can be public records, so you can find more information about them online.
How to Get a Marriage License
To get a marriage license you and your spouse have to apply for one together. Since they’re issued at the local level, you both have to visit the county office responsible for issuing a marriage license. Once you know where to go, you can follow the steps below to apply for your marriage license.
- Schedule an appointment with the county clerk or the office responsible for issuing marriage licenses in your state or county.
- Fill out the application in the presence of a clerk or the person responsible for overseeing marriage licenses.
- Provide proof of identification, which can include a birth certificate, passport, and driver’s license.
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Understand the validity of the license and ensure the officiant also has one.
Depending on the state and county, the steps to apply for a marriage license should be similar across the board.
How to Find a Copy of Your Marriage License
When you want to find a copy of your marriage license the best way to do so is to start with a public records search tool. If the marriage license is older than 50 years, it’s a public record in most states, so you can find and view it online even if you’re not related to the bride or groom.
We also recommend starting with a public records search engine if you need help determining the court or county clerk to contact for a copy of your marriage license. Even if Information.com’s public records tool can’t give you a copy of the marriage license, it can at least point you in the right direction.
Once you know where you received the license, you can contact the necessary county office to see if there is a record of it. If you need a copy of your recently-issued license, it should be there, but sometimes it may not be if you just had it issued. Typically, you can request a copy of your license this way by calling, going online, or visiting the office in person.
Get Your Marriage License Today
Your marriage license is one of the most important documents you need before getting married. Without one, you can’t marry the love of your life, so you need to apply for one within your state’s marriage license timeline. Once you have the license you can enjoy your special day and you’ll receive your marriage certificate after.
If you just need to view a copy of your marriage license, you can contact the county where you were married or use a third-party search tool like the one offered by Information.com.