You and your partner have been in love for years and finally decide to tie the knot. The excitement of planning your dream wedding is overwhelming, but as you look into the legal requirements, things get confusing.
Do you need a marriage license or certificate? Are they the same thing or two different documents?
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the legal prerequisites for obtaining a marriage license vs certificate.
What Is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a legal document issued by the government that allows couples to marry. It’s a permit to enter into a legally recognized union.
This document is usually obtained from the county clerk’s office and has specific requirements to be met before it can be issued.
The requirements for obtaining a marriage license may vary from state to state, but there are some general requirements that most states follow. These include:
Age
Both parties must be of legal age to get married, which is typically 18 years old. However, in most states, minors can get married with parental consent.
Identification
You’ll need to provide a valid form of identification to prove your identity. You can give a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.
Waiting Period
There may be a waiting period between obtaining the marriage license and getting married. Depending on the state, this can range from 24 hours to a few days.
Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license can range from $20 to $100.
What Is a Marriage Certificate?
On the other hand, a marriage certificate is a legal document that serves as proof of your marriage. It’s issued after you have completed the marriage ceremony and signed by the officiant and witnesses.
The requirements for obtaining a marriage certificate vary depending on your state or country’s laws. Some common requirements include:
Completed Marriage License
To obtain a marriage certificate, you must have a valid marriage license. This document will be submitted to the county clerk’s office after the wedding matrimony.
Officiant
The person who performs the wedding ceremony must be legally authorized by the state to do so. This can be a judge, religious leader, or other designated individual.
Witnesses
In most states, there is a requirement for witnesses to sign the marriage certificate. They serve as proof that the ceremony took place.
Identification
Both parties must present a valid form of identification to prove their identity. This can be a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.
Fees
You must pay $5 to $25 to obtain a marriage certificate.
Do You Need Both?
You need a marriage license and certificate to make your marriage official. Whether you opt for an online marriage, which is a trend nowadays, or a classic wedding, you must still obtain both documents.
The license allows you to get married legally, while the certificate proves your marriage. Without a marriage license, the ceremony would not be considered legal, and without a marriage certificate, your union may not be recognized by the government.
Exploring the Legal Prerequisites for Obtaining a Marriage License vs Certificate
Obtaining a marriage license vs certificate carries essential legal implications and responsibilities for couples looking to tie the knot. While both requirements may vary by state, being aware of the differences and fulfilling the necessary steps is crucial.
Don’t hesitate to contact your local government for further information and guidance. Now, it’s time to start planning for your big day!
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