Massachusetts Officiants

Marriage Laws United States Massachusetts Boston

Marriage license Laws in the state of Boston, Massachusetts, here is what you need to bring with you, and what you need to know about the Boston, Massachusetts marriage laws before filling out the Boston, Massachusetts marriage license form.

All persons who wish to be married in Massachusetts must have a marriage license issued within the State of Massachusetts. Out-of -State marriage licenses cannot be used in Massachusetts.

The bride and groom must apply in person for a marriage intention application. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents. Marriage intentions may be filed in any city or town within the state.

There is a (3) three day waiting period to receive your license. License is valid for (60) sixty days from the day you originally file and may be used in any city or town within the Commonwealth. This license cannot be used outside of this state. A waiver of the (3) three day waiting period can be applied for at the city or town clerk's office where you apply and then presented to a court of competent jurisdiction for approval.

Blood tests are required by law. The blood test certificate must be signed by a qualified physician practicing in the United States or territories of the United States, or a commissioned medical officer on active duty with the armed forces or the public health service of the United States, certifying that a serological test for syphilis was completed and that the individual was found to be free from communicable syphilis. Women, in addition, will be offered a voluntary test for rubella. A notation must be made on the certificate by the physician that the woman refused the rubella test or that she accepted it. The doctor must also discuss the contents of AIDS educational material developed and distributed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for marriage license applicants. For inquiries concerning AIDS information call 1-800-235-2331. The blood test is valid for (30) thirty days and the medical certificate must be presented to the clerk where the intention of marriage application was made within that valid period. Medical certificates must be presented before a marriage license is issued. The correct and ONLY form that the Commonwealth will accept must have on the heading: "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH." Out of State blood tests are acceptable, but must be processed by the Department of Public Health for that state and contain the above required information.

Federal Statutes requires the collection of Social Security numbers (SSNs) at time of application. Any person filing in Massachusetts who has been married and is divorced does not have to file divorce papers, but that individual's divorce must be FINAL at the time of the application date.

When either person is under (18) eighteen years old, a court order must be obtained from the probate court or district court where the minor resides. The parent must accompany the under age person along with the eligible person to the court prior to filing for the license. In Boston, proof of age is required if under the age of (24) twenty-four. For proof of age, a certified birth record or passport is required.

A Priest, Minister, Rabbi or a Justice of the Peace may perform the ceremony. A Justice of the Peace does not require witnesses to the ceremony but some religions may require witnesses so you should contact such person before the ceremony so that requirement can be met.

The person who performs the ceremony of marriage must sign the license and return it to the city or town where it was issued. That is the only place where the license will be registered.

Out of State clergy may perform the ceremony here provide that an authorization has been obtained from the Secretary of States Office at the McCormack Building prior to the ceremony. An office has been set aside for this purpose at: Public Records Division, Department of State Secretary, One Ashburton Place, Room, 1701, Boston, MA. 02108. Tel (617) 727-2836. The marriage license will not be registered unless the required authorization is enclosed with the license.

The fee for a Marriage License in Boston is $25.00 (cash only). For further information call (617)635-4179 or (617)635-4180.

Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.