Before you can get married, you need to obtain a marriage license from your local government. A marriage license acts as proof that you and your partner are legally allowed to get married.
The process of obtaining a marriage license varies from state to state, but one thing remains the same – you will need to fill out a marriage license application before getting married.
Key Information to Gather Before You Start
Before you start filling out your marriage license application, gathering all the necessary information and documents is important. This will make the process smoother and faster and help ensure you don’t make any mistakes. Here are some key pieces of information to gather before you begin:
- Full names of both partners
- Birth dates of both partners
- Social security numbers of both partners (if applicable)
- Previous marriages (if applicable)
- Residency information
- Identification (such as a driver’s license or passport)
How to Fill Out a Marriage License Application
Now that you have all the necessary information and documents, it’s time to start filling out your marriage license application. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Obtain the marriage license application from your local government.
- Read the instructions carefully.
- Fill out the application completely and accurately. This includes providing your full names, birth dates, and social security numbers (if applicable).
- Provide information about any previous marriages (if applicable).
- Provide your residency information.
- Present valid identification (such as a driver’s license or passport).
- Pay the fee for the marriage license (fees vary by state).
- Wait for the license to be processed (processing times vary by state).
Tips for a Successful Marriage License Application
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind as you fill out your marriage license application:
- Be sure to fill out the application completely and accurately.
- Double-check all of the information before you submit the application.
- Make sure you have all of the necessary information and documents.
- Be prepared to pay the fee for the marriage license.
- Be patient during the processing time – processing times can vary significantly from state to state.
FAQs about How to Fill Out a Marriage License Application
What information do I need to provide on the marriage license application?
You will need to provide your full names, birth dates, and social security numbers (if applicable). You will also need to provide information about any previous marriages (if applicable) and your residency information.
Can I fill out the marriage license application online?
It depends on your state. Some states allow you to complete the marriage license application online, while others require you to fill it out in person.
What documents do I need to provide with the marriage license application?
You must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
How much does it cost to obtain a marriage license?
The cost of obtaining a marriage license varies by state, but it typically ranges from $25 to $100. Some states also require you to pay a processing fee, so check with your local government for the exact fees in your area.
How long does it take for the marriage license to be processed?
The processing time for a marriage license varies by state, but it typically takes anywhere from being available the same day to a few days to a few weeks. Be sure to check with your local government for the processing time in your state.