Find out where in your state you need to go to apply for a marriage license and what each state's requirements are.
To choose which state you need click here.

 

Not every state or county will have the same requirements to obtain a marriage license. Always check before hand with your state or county to make sure you know all that needs to be done. Below you will find general steps that you'll need to take in any state.

For more helpful information on marriage laws and pre-marital laws, laws by state, county and state laws regarding marriage licenses, blood tests, waiting periods, teen marriage laws, etc. Click here

Restrictions
Again, depending on which state you are getting married in, you will find certain restrictions when applying for your marriage license. Check if your license is only valid in one county. If so, obtain a license in the county where your ceremony will be located. There most likely will be time restrictions on your license. Most states and counties it is valid for only 30 days, some 60 days. Also, you may have to wait 24 hours before using your license (not all states operate like Las Vegas). For detailed information for each state, click here.

Destination Wedding?
Wanting to get married abroad? Click here to find out requirments.

You'll Need Proper Identification
As with anything that deals with legal matters, you will need proper and most importantly VALID identification. Most states will require a photo identification (driver's licenses are the easiest). If you were born in another country other than the U.S. or you or your future spouse aren't an American Citizen, there will be different guidelines to follow. Contact your local county clerks office to find out what you'll need for that.

Some states or counties may require a birth certificate for identification as well (notarized and not photo copied). Other forms of identification commonly used are: passports, military ID's, driver's licence and birth certificate. For detailed information for each state, click here.

You Need to go Together
You and your future spouse will need to apply for the license together. If you or your future spouse are under 18, a parent should go with you.

Blood Tests and / or Physical Examinations
This is not required in all states. To find out if your state requires these, click here.

Previously Divorced? Widowed?
If either of you have been divorced or are widowed, the county or state will need this information. Some places don't need proof, yet some do - check ahead of time so you'll know what proof you'll need to bring. Some states may just require the county, state and date regarding the divorce or being widowed. For detailed information for each state, click here.

Keep it in a Safe Place
Just because you get a license does not mean you are married. You'll need to take this to the place of your ceremony and have the officiant sign the license - after the ceremony- along with 2 witnesses (usually the maid of honor and best man). Request several copies of your license-you'll need it to notify those necessary of your name change (such as: Social Security, bank, insurance, credit cards, employment, etc.)