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How Previous Marriages Affect the Marriage License Application

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, How Previous Marriages Affect the Marriage License Application

Photo: A La Mode Events, Flickr Creative Commons

If this is not your first time down the aisle, you are familiar with the marriage license application process. But a second marriage requires a few extra steps before a New York City marriage license can be issued.

The application requires you and your future spouse to provide the following information:

    Name
    Current address
    Country of birth
    Date of birth
    Name and country of birth of your parents
    Social security number
    Marital history

If you were previously married, you will need to list all previous marriages. You must include your previous spouse’s full name; the date the divorce decree was granted; and the city, state, and country where the divorce was issued; or the date of your spouse’s death. Bring a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate. All divorces, annulments, and dissolutions must be finalized before you apply for a new marriage license, so be sure you have this paperwork in order before you go.

You will also have to bring current, valid photo identification with you. Eight forms of identification are accepted:

    Driver’s license with photograph (from the United States of America or any of its territories)
    Non-driver identification card with photograph (from the United States of America or any of its territories)
    Learner’s permit with photograph (from the United States of America or any of its territories)
    Active United States Military Identification Card
    Passport
    United States Certificate of Naturalization (good for 10 years after date of issue)
    United States Permanent Resident Card
    United States Employment Authorization Card

When you are ready to apply for your New York City marriage license, you and your future spouse will need to appear in person at one of the borough offices of the City Clerk of New York. You can start your application online and it will be ready for you when you arrive at the Clerk’s office. Be sure to contact your local borough clerk’s office well in advance of the wedding to find out on what days and during what hours the clerk will be in the office.

There is a $35 fee for a marriage license in New York City; cash is always an accepted method of payment. For additional payment options, be sure to call ahead.

You do not have to be a New York state resident to obtain a license, but there is a 24-hour waiting period before your ceremony can be performed. A marriage license is also valid for 60 days from date of issuance. If you are traveling from outside the state, be sure to get your marriage license within the correct time frame.

Previous marriages require additional paperwork, so keep that in mind when applying for your New York City marriage license. It’s best to begin the application process early to ensure there is no hold-up from missing information.

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