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How to Purchase a Marriage License

In most states, it is necessary to have a license before getting married. The requirements of the license depend on where you live because each state has its own set of rules. To find out for sure what is required, you will need to contact the courthouse and speak with the clerk.

A few states require you to adhere to specific state laws before purchasing a marriage license. Again, checking with the County Clerk is in your best interest. Once you make contact with the courts you can learn more about the details that the state requires.

Purchasing a Marriage License

Purchasing a marriage license in your area depends mostly on individual state requirements. Michigan residents, for example, must pay a nominal fee to take acquire a license. Some areas of Michigan require you to pay fees for counseling assessments, to participate in counseling meetings, and to follow a few other rules before obtaining a license for marriage. Once the law requirements are met, your license can be purchased at the Clerks office, which is often found in the Courthouse. The exact cost depends on the area, but it is generally around $30. .

The number of divorces is on the rise. Therefore, many states have regulations in place to ensure the duo understands the marriage arrangement and is truly ready to get married. States such as California, however, allow marriage licenses to be purchased right before the wedding starts. In some states, however, the marriage license expires a few weeks after being purchased. Therefore, it is important to be aware of how long the license is valid when purchasing a license.

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Some states require proof of age, status, and identification. Few states, however, require presenting proof of being single and eligible for marriage. Most states require both parties to be at least eighteen-years of age before applying for a license to marry. Some states allow individuals under 18 to marry, but they must have written permission from their guardian. In addition, most will not issue marriage licenses to couples that are already related in some way.

At the Wedding

Once at the altar, many states require the couple to have witnesses to the marriage. Generally, this means one or two other people need to present at the marriage and they must sign the marriage license. A judge, clergy, ordained minister, or other party allowed to legally perform marriages must also sign the license.