How to Fill Out a Marriage License
An upcoming marriage is a very exciting time in the lives of an engaged man and woman. In addition to all the planning that goes with a marriage, there are some legal issues that must be taken care of in order to make sure the marriage is officially recognized. A couple should prepare in advance to take care of the license and be sure to fill it out properly so that nothing stands in the way of their marriage being official.
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Things You'll Need
- Bride and groom Driver's license Social security or alien registration number Payment method for fee Official's signature Witnesses signatures
Instructions
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How to Fill Out a Mariage License
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Plan a time to go together with your fiancé to fill out the marriage license. Both parties must be present to fill out and turn in the license. In the majority of states, a marriage application and license can be filled out at the county clerk's office. If you are unsure of where to fill out the license in your state, call the local sheriff's department and ask them where to go. The county clerk may have allotted times for couples to come in and apply for and fill out a marriage license, so call and verify when you should show up. Additionally, marriage licenses are good for up to 60 days from the time they are processed.
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Bring all the necessary items you will need for your marriage license to the county clerk's office. Both parties will need proper identification, such as a driver's license, to prove that they are at least 18 years of age. You will also need your social security card or an alien registration number, if one of the party's is not a U.S. citizen. You will need to pay for the license by cash, check or credit card. License fees vary from state to state, so call in advance to find out how much it will cost.
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Fill out the license in black ink, starting with the groom. Both parties will need to list their name, social security number, address, place of birth and parent's maiden name. Both parties will then need to sign the license to verify that the information they listed is accurate.
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Have the official who performs your ceremony fill in the wedding date, location, his name, title and address, as well as his signature, immediately after he performs your wedding ceremony. You will also need two witnesses to sign the marriage license, who will typically be the best man and maid of honor.
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Mail the completed marriage license back to the county clerk's office, where your marriage will be officially registered.
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Tips & Warnings
In some states, completing a marriage preparation course will result in a lower fee for obtaining a marriage license.
