Your North Carolina Marriage License is the official document you need for a legal marriage in the United States. Learn insider filing tips for North Carolina residents in our quick video!
Planning to say "I do" in South Carolina? Relax...the marriage license application process is easy! Watch our video to learn the in's and out's of getting legally married in South Carolina
Filing for a marriage license in California? It is important to consider what last name you intend to use after you are married. If you want to blend your last name with your spouse's watch our video to learn more...
If you're preparing to file for a marriage license in Illinois, there are three tips to make the process a snap! Watch our video to learn more:
While Georgia is a peach of a state when it comes to marriage license jurisdiction, it is still helpful to know 3 key tips to ensure a smooth filing process before your wedding. Check out our video for the inside scoop on the Georgia marriage license application process!
Saying "I do" in the Lone Star state? Watch our video to understand the easiest way to file for your marriage license before your wedding! We also share a tip to save you money on your application fee!
Why bother applying for a marriage license? There are plenty of good reasons! If you are hoping to claim certain benefits, then filing for a marriage license is critical for a few of the following reasons. Watch our video to learn more!
In the piles of marriage-related legal paperwork, there are three main documents: the marriage license, the marriage certificate and the certified marriage certificate. Each has a different use and filing method. Curious which does what? Watch this video!
Living in New York and planning a wedding? Don’t forget to file for your marriage license prior to your big day! Watch our video for tips to ensure a smooth application process and stress free wedding!
What happens with you complete the form to file for your marriage license, and notice when the document comes back that there is a mistake?! Watch this video to learn the reasons why you should correct any mistakes sooner rather than later – and some tips on how to do so!
Once you realize that you need a marriage license, the next question is where do you get one? The answer depends on where you live and where you intend to get married. Watch our quick video to get the inside scoop on what dictates the county you apply for a marriage license in!
Getting married and stressing about your marriage license? Take a deep breath and watch our video. We'll go over marriage licenses, if marriage licenses expire, and what you need to know before you apply for your marriage license!
There are a lot of questions surrounding marriage licenses and name change, so we made a video to help you sort things out! Whether you are planning on hyphenating, taking two last names, taking your maiden as a middle name or taking your spouse’s name, your marriage license is an important first step to starting the name change process...get the full scoop in this quick video!
Why are their marriage license myths? We honestly don't know! Some of the incorrect information regarding the marriage license filing process comes from historical requirements, variances in county or state laws, and a good measure of miscommunication. Not to worry! This video will help you understand what you DO and DO NOT need to prepare for as you file for your marriage license. https://s3.amazonaws.com/missnowmrs-video/Marriage_License_Myths.mp4
Are you getting ready to walk down the aisle in Kentucky? Hold your horses (yes we went there) and read these tips to ensure your marriage license filing process goes smoothly!
Tip 1: No Need to Wait
There is no wait time for marriage licenses in Kentucky, so you can walk into the county clerk's office and walk out with a marriage license the same day. Just be sure to arrive 30 minute before the office closes so the clerk has time to process your application and issue your license!
Tip 2: Apply 2-3 Weeks Before Your Wedding Date
Marriage licenses are valid for 30 dates from the date of issue in Kentucky, so apply for your license before but not too ahead of your wedding. You don't want to be down to the wire and stressed about filing the day of your wedding, but you also don't want to miscalculate and apply for a license too soon and have it expire before you say "I do."
Tip 3: Together Is Better
All county clerk offices in Kentucky require that both partners be present to file for the marriage license. Be sure that you both bring proof of identification such as Social Security cards and driver's licenses. You can also expect to pay $35+ for your marriage license. Specific county information can be found by searching your county on our website!
Your marriage license is the document that makes your marriage legal in the United States. The last thing you want to do is make a mistake that ends up delaying your wedding or creating legal headaches as newlyweds. Watch our video to learn the 3 most common marriage license mistakes to avoid! https://s3.amazonaws.com/missnowmrs-video/Marriage_License_Myths.mp4
Georgia is a "peach" of a state when it comes to engaged couples applying for their marriage license! Follow the tips below to ensure you're ready for your wedding with zero stress related to your marriage license:
Tip 1: File with the County Probate Court
Also known as Marriage License Bureaus, county clerk's offices are typically located within your county probate court or circuit court. This office is where you apply for your marriage license in Georgia.
Tip 2: File Together & Bring Identification Documents
All counties in Georgia require both parties getting married to file in-person for a marriage license. Be sure that you and your fiancé bring your birth certificates, driver's licenses or state-issued IDs, and your Social Security cards when you file. These documents are needed to verify your identities and issue your marriage license. *Word to the wise: make sure you have all of the required documents well before you file for your license (in case you need to order new copies or need your parents to locate them).
Tip 3: Pre-Marital Courses Can Save You Cash
If you elect to take a pre-marital course from a licensed marriage counselor within 12 months of your wedding, your county will discount your marriage license application by $40! Consider it added incentive to spend 6 hours building the foundation for a marriage that will last a lifetime! *To receive the discount remember to bring your course completion documentation.
Engaged and planning a wedding in Iowa? Don't forget to file for your marriage license! A marriage license is the state-issued document that makes your marriage legal in the eyes of Iowa and the federal government.
In Iowa, timing your application is critical. Unlike many states, there is a waiting period for marriage licenses to be issued. Couples must wait 3 business days for their marriage license to be issued. The day the application was processed does not count towards the 3 day wait (so it's easier to mentally call it a 4 day waiting period).
The fee for your Iowa marriage license is $35, and both partners getting married must be present to file. Look at is as an excuse to have a celebratory lunch together afterwards! In some counties you will need to bring a witness...so make sure you book a table for 3! Look up your county's specific filing rules using our free search.
Engaged and preparing to walk down the aisle in Michigan? There are two things to keep in mind to make the marriage license application process a breeze!
1. Perfect Timing - Timing your application for a marriage license in Michigan is crucial. There is a 3-day waiting period before marriage licenses - so don't wait until the night before your wedding! Also, after your license is issued, it expires in 30-33 days - so don't apply too early!
2. In-State vs. Out-of-State Residency - Engaged residents of Michigan can file for a marriage license in the county either partner lives in and use that license to marriage in any county within the state. Out-of-State couples planning to marry in Michigan must file for a marriage license in the county their wedding will take place in. They will also pay approximate $10 more for their marriage license than Michigan natives.
Now that you have the inside scoop on how to file for a marriage license in Michigan you can plan your application timing accordingly and move on with planning for your big day!
Planning a wedding in New Mexico? An important "to-do" before saying "I do" is filing your marriage license application. In the state of New Mexico there are several rules and office procedures to understand to make the process smooth and worry-free:
1. Togetherness - Both individuals wishing to be married must apply together, in person, at their county clerk's office to file for a marriage license.
2. Identity - Be sure to bring your driver's licenses and social security cards as proof of identity.
3. Cash - The cost of applying for a marriage license in New Mexico is $25. Most county offices will only accept exact cash as payment for their fee (so hit the ATM).
4. Expiration - Marriage licenses issued by New Mexico counties do not have an expiration date, so you can acquire yours well before the last hectic weeks before your wedding.
Engaged and curious how to file for a marriage license in Wyoming? A marriage license is the document that is signed by your minister/officiant and filed to make your marriage legal in the United States....so it's rather important. Follow these 3 tips to make filing a breeze!
1. Plan Ahead - Wyoming is one of the only states that accepts marriage license applications without a waiting period and the license is valid for 12 months! You can use that large window to apply for your marriage license at a convenient time well ahead of your wedding date. *Be sure to arrive 30 minutes prior to the county clerk's office closing time to allow enough time for your request to be processed.
2. Better Together - All offices require that both individuals who wish to be married appear in person to apply for their marriage license. Make sure to bring a government issued ID (driver's license or passport) and your Social Security card. Both are needed for identification verification before your application is accepted.
3.Cash is King - A handful of county clerk's offices in Wyoming will only accept cash or personal checks. Either verify your county's specific payment methods at MarriageLicense.com, or ensure a smooth application process by bringing $30 in cash.
Planning a destination wedding in Hawaii? Do not forget to file a marriage license application before your wedding! While every state and county within the United States requires a marriage license prior to a legal marriage, each state and county may have different filing rules. Follow our simple suggestions for filing for your Hawaii marriage license and you can say Aloha to stress!
1. Hawaii marriage license applications must be filed at the county clerk's office and expire 30 days after your filing.
2. All county offices in Hawaii require their fees to be paid in exact change, so be sure to withdraw cash before you apply.
3. Fees range from $65-$70, depending on the county you file in.
4. Another requirement at all county offices: both partners must be present to apply for a marriage license.
5. Both partners should bring their government issued photo ID (ex: driver's license) and their Social Security card for identification purposes.
Getting married in Nevada? Understanding the marriage license application process before you head to the county clerk's office will help prevent frustration and multiple trips. Read on to be in the know before you tie the knot!
Tip #1 Togetherness
Every county clerk's office in every county of Nevada require that both partners file for the marriage license together. This means that you and your fiancé need to plan a date and time where you can both file for your marriage license between 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday-Friday. We suggest that you squeeze in a romantic lunch afterwards!
Tip #2 Cash is King
Prior to applying for your Nevada marriage license, stop by your bank. Most county clerk's offices will not accept payment via credit or debit cards. Marriage license application fees range from $60 to $75, depending on the county you are applying in. You can click the link for your specific county on MarriageLicenseNow to get the exact details!
Tip #3 No Wait = Great
There is no waiting period for your marriage license. Remember...Nevada is the home of the Vegas wedding, so you can apply for your marriage license on your wedding day (although we don't recommend it)! Marriage licenses issued in Nevada are valid for 12 months. We advise applying a few weeks before your big day to avoid adding another "to-do" the day you say "I do".
Preparing to file for a marriage license in the state of Illinois? Follow our insider filing tips to make the process a snap!
Marriage License Tip 1: Apply for your marriage license in the county you will be married in (not your county of residence if it is different)! There's nothing worse then standing in line at the county clerk's office and finding out you need to go to another county office when you reach the front.
Marriage License Tip 2: Most counties in Illinois require that you pay your marriage license fee with cash or a check. A few county clerk's offices accept cash only...so when in doubt stop by the ATM before you file. Fees differ by county and range from $20 to $55.
Marriage License Tip 3: File for your marriage license no more than 59 days before your wedding. All Illinois marriage licenses expire 60 days from the date they are issued. An expired marriage license will not help you become legally married....whomp...whomp...whomp!
Filing for your marriage license is paramount before you walk down the aisle in the nation's capital. Fortunately, Washington D.C. has the most lenient filing process of all states and counties in the U.S.
Engaged couples in the District have the flexibility for either partner to file for the marriage license. While it is not required for both of you to file, you will need both of your social security cards or numbers to complete the application. The fee for your marriage license may cost less than your parking...a D.C. marriage license only costs $35 to be issued.
Another perk of getting married in Washington D.C. is the fact that your marriage license is issued the same day you apply for it and it NEVER expires! This means you can file for one the day after your engaged (we know you're out there over achievers) or you can file the day before your wedding (although we advise against waiting to the very last minute).
Getting married in Colorado and curious about how to file for a marriage license? Our 3 tips will help you navigate the process with ease!
Tip 1: Plan Your Filing Date. It's great to be prepared when planning a wedding, but it's not a good idea to be over prepared when it comes to filing for your marriage license. Colorado marriage licenses expire 35 days from the date that they were issued, regardless of whether they were issued in Boulder County, Park County, Yuma County or any other county within the state. Be sure to file for your license within the 35 day window to prevent your marriage from being "unofficial" due to an expired marriage license.
Tip 2: Hit the ATM. All Colorado county clerks' offices charge the same $30 fee to issue a marriage license, but several will only accept cash as payment. A stop at the bank will ensure that you can file for your license, pay for it and have it issued the same day. No need to waste time with two trips!
Tip 3: Double Up. Both parties planning to tie the knot need to be present when filing for a marriage license in Colorado. You will also need to supply your social security numbers and proof of ID, such as a driver's license or U.S. Passport. Head to the county clerk's office together and you'll be one step closer to marital bliss.
June 26th was a big day in the world of marriage licenses and of course gay marriage. The Supreme Court ruled that any couple in love, in any state in the U.S., can get married. This means that all of these couples now need to navigate the marriage license application process.
This ruling means that couples intending to tie the knot need to file for a marriage license at their county clerk's office. A marriage license is the document that allows a legal marriage recognized by the United States government (which is important when it comes to things like insurance, social security benefits and name change). As many engaged couples are now exploring the marriage license filing process, requirements and timeline within their state and county, MarriageLicenseNow.com is a fantastic free resource. Simply click on the state you will be marrying in and then the county where you will exchange vows to get detailed information on where to file, filing fees, hold times and expiration windows for marriage certificates.
Planning your wedding and life together should be your focus, not stressing over marriage license requirements! Pour a glass of champagne and toast an easy solution and the fact that #LoveWins.
Getting ready to get married in Ohio? As you coordinate all of the details of your big day, be sure to make time to file for your Ohio marriage license. A marriage license is the document that allows you to marry legally within the United States (which is a little bit important).
Ohio residents should not head to their county clerk's office to file for a marriage license. Unlike most other states, Ohio issues marriage licenses via County Probate Offices. Another important tip: be sure to hit the ATM machine prior to filing. Most county probate offices will only accept cash for their marriage license filing fee, which can cost upwards of $76 in some Ohio counties.
Buckeye state residents will also get a taste of married togetherness before saying "I do". Both members of the couple wishing to be married are required to be present to file for a marriage license. Silver lining: you can plan to file around lunch time and then go out to celebrate being one step closer to married!
Planning to get married in Maine? Don't forget to file for your marriage license! You'll need a marriage license to document and legalize your wedding in the eyes of the United States Government.
Applying for a marriage license is relatively simple for residents of Maine. No matter what county you apply in, the cost of a Maine marriage license is $40. Most county/city clerk's office's require a photo ID, such as a driver's license or U.S. passport to be presented by both parties intending to be married at time of filing.
If you're tying the knot this summer, now is a good time to work filing for your marriage license into your joint calendar. Maine marriage licenses expire 90 days after they are issued, so work backwards from your wedding date to determine the best time to file! Using these tips you can check one more very important item off of your wedding to-do list!
South Carolina has a very simple marriage license filing process compared to many other states. While the fee for a marriage license will differ based on the county you file in, your marriage license is valid in any county (so you don't have to make a special trip to the county you are getting married in if it isn't your county of residence). *Please note that a few counties only accept cash payment of the filing fee.
Another great thing about saying "I do" in South Carolina: there isn't a wait time for your marriage license to be issued AND there isn't an expiration date! This means you can relax a little and file for your license at a convenient time. No need to calculate how many days prior to your wedding you need to file and stress about making that work with your schedules.
Ready to file for your South Carolina marriage license? Plan on both you and your fiancé filing in person at the county clerk's office (one more step towards togetherness). You should both bring your social security cards and state issued driver's license or photo ID.
Planning to file for a marriage license in New Jersey? Garden State brides have a few things to keep in mind as they apply for the license that allows them to legally marry their beloved in the United States.
Both you and your fiancé will need to appear at the Registrar of Vital Statistics in the town one of you lives in (or in the town you will be married in if you are non-New Jersey residents). You can pre-complete your application form, but DO NOT sign it. You will need to sign your marriage license application under oath at the Registrar of Vital Statistics.
Also, it is wise to apply for your marriage license two weeks prior to your wedding. There is a three day wait period for the license to be issued, and in many towns your marriage license will expire 30 days after it is applied for.
Knowing these tips will make filing for your New Jersey marriage license a breeze, so you can focus on the fun of wedding (and honeymoon) planning!
Getting ready to say "I do" in North Carolina? As you plan the details of your wedding, don't forget to apply for a marriage license...it's the legal document that makes your marriage official in the eyes of the government (making it a rather important detail).
Great news if you're a procrastinating bride, the Register of Deeds will issue your marriage license the same day you apply for it (no waiting periods for you) AND you can use your marriage license the same day you receive it! Both of you will need to apply for your marriage license, and bring your state issued driver's licenses as proof of identity. After paying the $60 fee you'll be "almost officially married". Congrats!
As you prepare to get married in Pennsylvania, questions about the marriage license application process begin to pop up. Where and when do you file? Are there any required tests? No need to be stressed...we have the full scoop!
Both you and your soon-to-be spouse will need to file your application in person at the county clerk's office. The expression "cash is king" is rather fitting for those applying for a marriage license in Pennsylvania, as most offices will only accept cash payment for your filing fee. The majority of Pennsylvania counties charge $40 or more for a marriage license application to be processed, so a trip to the ATM machine pre-filing is highly advisable.
Another tip: have all of your official paperwork in order before applying for your marriage license. All offices require both of you to present your photo ID, a document with your current address (such as a utility bill) and social security cards.
Marriage license applications and filing in Texas have a few key steps. First off, no blood test is required for your marriage license to be issued...whew! You and your fiancé will both need to apply for your marriage license in-person at your County Clerk's office. Please note that your license expires after 90 days, so it is important to plan your office trip accordingly!
A marriage license costs upwards of $82 in the Lone Star state...and while it is the paperwork that allows your legal marriage within the United States, that's a hefty fee in comparison to other states' fees. Fortunately, there is a program called Twogether that can save you $60 on your filing fee! Simply take the eight hour premarital counseling course and bring your certificate of completion when you file for your marriage license. Added bonus: you'll have professional counseling under your belt to make your marriage that much stronger!
Planning to get married in the sunshine state? With warm weather, palm trees, beaches and a variety of destination cities, Florida is a hot spot for destination and local weddings! With that in mind, there are different marriage license filing rules based on whether you are a Florida resident or non-resident.
Non-Florida residents do not have a waiting period when applying for a marriage license and will pay over $90 for their license. Engaged couples who live in Florida have a three day waiting period when filing for a marriage license (which seems really weird right?!). Florida residents can skip the three day waiting period by completing a premarital counseling course and bringing proof of completion to the county clerk's office when filing for their marriage license.
Living in New York and planning a wedding? Don't forget to file for your marriage license prior to your big day! Every state has specific regulations around marriage licenses, and New York is no exception. Below are a few tips to make navigating the marriage license filing process a breeze.
Tip 1. Head to Your Town Clerk's Office. Unlike most engaged couples in the U.S., New Yorkers need to apply for a marriage license at the town level instead of county level.
Tip 2. Don't Procrastinate. There is a 24 hour waiting period for marriage licenses to be issued in the Big Apple, so please don't wait until the day of your wedding to file!
Tip 3. Timing is Everything. Marriage licenses issues in New York expire after 60 days. So those of you chronic over achievers take note....filing too far in advance of your wedding can result in your license expiring before you take your vows (and create a legal headache).
Following these three tips will ensure that your marriage license application is accepted and your license is ready for when you say "I do"!
Tying the knot in Alaska? It can be a challenge to figure out the marriage license application process in the Northern-most state. True to it's pioneer spirit, Alaska has a unique way of handling marriage license applications.
Most states require both engaged parties to file their marriage license application in person at a county clerks office. Not so in Alaska! Simply download the correct marriage license application from Vital Statistics, complete it and print it out. Write a check for the marriage license processing fee (typically $60) and then mail your completed application and check to your county Vital Statistics office.
While couples can mail in their application, they do need to pick up their marriage license from the Vital Statistics office. If you're in a hurry, your marriage license will be ready 3 business days after it was received. If you're busy wedding planning, the office will hold your marriage license for 12 months!
Ready to file for your marriage license in California? Before you complete your application form be sure to consider what last name you intend to use after you are married. If you plan to take your maiden name as a new middle name or if you plan to blend your last name with your spouse's last name you MUST write them exactly how you want them on your marriage license. For example, if you are Jennifer Anne Greenberg and want to blend your last name with your spouse Anthony John Bookman; you would need to write your name as Jennifer Anne Greenman on your California marriage license application.
If you simply write your maiden name on your marriage license, you will not have the option to use the married name change process to change your name. Instead, you will need to petition the US court system for a legal name change order (which includes being fingerprinted and running an ad in your local newspaper among other un-fun things). Bottom line, before you apply for your marriage license, think about your name change options and the name that most suits the soon-to-be-married you!
**Please note that California is currently the only state that allows couples to blend their last names on their marriage license applications.
While a marriage license is a very important legal document that allows you to be legally married in the United States, it is also a celebration in the form of a piece of paper. That one sheet of paper showing your maiden name and your spouse's name documents your love and commitment to spend the rest of your lives together! No wonder more and more couples are including a marriage license shot in their wedding photo line up. Below are a few examples and ideas to get you started....please feel free to post your own marriage license photos in a comment!
1. The classic kissing while holding the marriage license pose:
2. The almost kissing while the camera focuses in on the marriage license shot:
3. The signing of the marriage license moment is lovely to capture for posterity:
4. And of course we would be remiss if we didn't include the marriage license wedding ring close-up:
What is your favorite marriage license related photo? Were you crazy creative or did you completely skip it? We'd love to hear from you in a comment!
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