What You Need to "Make It Legal"
For all the beauty and romance of your marriage, there’s a legal aspect as well. Marriage laws change over the years and from state to state (blood tests, for example, are no longer required in most states), so we’re here to help you through the modern wedding requirements.
In order to properly start your new life together, you need a marriage license. Basically, the license confirms that you have willingly entered this new union, opens up your new spousal rights, and shows that you have ended any “blocks” to your wedding (like divorce or widowhood).
Obtaining a marriage license is not a difficult task, but you should take care of it immediately. (Note: Since licenses have different time-frames; you may need to wait until a few weeks before the wedding to obtain the license, or up to six months. Also, there may be a waiting period of about 24 hours before you’re allowed to wed.)
Depending on where you live, the license-location offices vary. It could be a town clerk’s office, City Hall, or a marriage-license bureau in the city where you’re getting married. Your clergyman might have the details, and you can do an Internet search for “Marriage License Requirements.” You can also check the online or paper Yellow Pages, under “Marriage.” Since laws differ from state to state, don’t assume a friend’s marriage requirements in another state will be the same for yours.
Once you’ve established where to get the license, find out when you need to fill out the forms, then make an appointment (many offices allow walk-ins, so ask. Also, both of you will most likely be needed on the day of). You might be able to fill out the forms online and then bring them into the office.
The requirements vary from state to state, but be prepared to show photo identification, proof of age, proof of marriage counseling, divorce decree and death certificate (if applicable), parental consent if under age (some states require that your parents be present), and, in a few states, blood tests. You will both need to sign the form; in addition, you’ll need the signatures of two witnesses.
Marriage licenses cost around $40; should you lose it, you can file for a duplicate form for about $25. Should you need to get married before the waiting period, you can file for a judicial waiver. This is generally a free service. If approved by the judge, he gives the written permission to your wedding officiant. Should your license period expire before you get married, you have to reapply and return the original license. If you don’t fill out the forms on time, perform your ceremony anyway, and simply make it official ASAP. There’s no need for guests to know, or to alter your plans.