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Marriage license requirements in the United States, here is the breakdown of the marriage license application fee and where to apply for a marriage license application.

If you are having a destination wedding, or getting married in a state other than where you live, you’ll also want to find out about residency requirements (how long you must be in the county before you can apply).

Getting a Marriage License and getting Legally Married in the Unite States:

  1. Both applicants must bring identification, necessary paperwork, fees, and sometimes blood test results to the county clerk.

  2. The marriage license is either mailed or picked up by the couple.

  3. There is sometimes a waiting period, depending on your state.

  4. You are married by someone legally allowed to do so in your state.

  5. That person, usually two witnesses, and sometimes the bride and groom sign the marriage license.

  6. The marriage license is returned to the county clerk’s office.

  7. About a week later, copies of the certified marriage certificate can be purchased from the clerk’s office.

It’s really not that complicated a process, but it seems so since the laws vary so greatly from state to state. Here is an overview of what popular wedding destinations require.

New York Marriage License Requirements

Where to apply A town or city clerk

Fees? $35 within the five (5) boroughs of New York City.
$40 outside of New York City.

Documents needed Documents showing both identification – such as a driver’s license or passport – and age – such as a birth certificate or naturalization record.

Marriage License valid for: 60 days

Waiting period or residency necessary: 24 hours waiting period; Non-residents cannot obtain a marriage license if said marriage would be void in their state.

Hawaii Marriage License Requirements

Where to apply Department of Health marriage licensing office

Fees? $60 cash.

Documents needed If you are 19 or older, a current driver’s license. If you are 18 or younger, you need to show a certified birth certificate. (If you are 16 or 17, you’ll also need the written consent of your parent or guardian.)

Marriage License valid for: 30 days

Waiting period or residency necessary: None

Las Vegas Marriage License Requirements

Where to apply The County Clerk’s Office

Fees? $55 cash

Documents needed Identification such as a driver’s license or ID card, proof of age, Social Security Number

Marriage License valid for: Indefinitely

Waiting period or residency necessary: None

Florida Marriage License Requirements

Where to apply The local County Clerk of Courts

Fees? $93.50

Documents needed driver’s license and document showing Social Security number

Marriage License valid for: 60 days

Waiting period or residency necessary: Three-day waiting period between application and the effective date of a marriage license.

California Marriage License Requirements

Where to apply The County Clerk’s Office

Fees? yes, vary by county

Documents needed: Valid picture identification such as a driver’s license. Some counties also require a birth certificate.

Marriage License valid for: 90 days

Waiting period or residency necessary: no

For more information on marriage license laws and requirements, go to usmarriagelaws.com’s marriage license directory.

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State Laws marriage requirements to obtain and file a marriage license to receive certified copy of your marriage certificate from clerk’s office upon request.

United States Marriage License Laws