George Boyle
After the wedding ceremony, the couple's signed marriage license must be returned to the county clerk's office, which then records the marriage. The length of time it takes to receive the marriage certificate varies depending on the county and state. In California, some counties offer same-day issuance of marriage certificates, while others can take a few weeks or longer. In Florida, the marriage license is valid for 60 days after issuance, and the original must be returned to the Central Courthouse Marriage Division within 10 days of the ceremony.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to receive marriage certificate after wedding | Typically a few weeks, but can vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the county |
| Requirements to receive marriage certificate | Completed marriage license signed by officiant and returned to the relevant county clerk's office |
| Marriage license validity | 60 days in Florida |
| Marriage license fee | $61.00 in Florida if the couple attends a premarital course from a registered provider |
| Waiting period for marriage after receiving license | May be a waiting period before the couple can get married after receiving the license |
| Marriage certificate fee | $17 in San Francisco |
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$17.99
What You'll Learn
Marriage license and certificate are not the same
The process of getting married involves several steps, and it's important to understand the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate. These two documents are distinct and serve different purposes, so let's explore why.
A marriage license is a legal document that permits a couple to marry. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license vary depending on the state and county where the wedding will take place. In most cases, both parties must be present when applying for the license and provide valid photo identification, along with other personal details such as legal names, places and dates of birth, and parents' legal names and birthplaces. Some states may also require proof of age and parents' identity, which can be provided through certified copies of birth certificates. The cost of a marriage license typically ranges from $35 to $150, and it may be necessary to complete an affidavit or attend a premarital course before obtaining the license.
On the other hand, a marriage certificate is a document issued after the wedding ceremony. It serves as proof that the couple is legally married and typically includes details such as the date, time, and place of the wedding, as well as the officiant's name. Obtaining a marriage certificate usually involves returning the completed marriage license to the appropriate office or courthouse, where it will be recorded and processed. The marriage certificate then becomes an official record of the marriage and can be used for various purposes, including sharing health benefits, filing taxes, applying for loans or mortgages, proving identity, or travelling internationally.
It's worth noting that there may be a waiting period before the marriage license is valid, and the license is typically valid for a limited period, such as 60 days in some states. After the marriage ceremony, the officiant will sign and verify the marriage license before submitting it back to the county. The county will then take several weeks to issue the marriage certificate, which can be purchased for a small fee.
While the marriage license permits the couple to marry, the marriage certificate serves as the official record and proof of the marriage. Both documents are crucial in establishing the legal status of the married couple and may be required for various administrative and legal purposes throughout their married life. Therefore, it is essential to understand the difference between these two documents and follow the specific guidelines and requirements of the state and county where the wedding will take place.
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Requirements for a marriage license
The requirements for a marriage license can vary depending on your location. Here are the requirements for a few different places:
Santa Clara County, California:
Both parties must be present when applying for the license and must provide valid photo government-issued ID. No copies or digital images are allowed. You'll need to provide your legal name, place and date of birth, the name you'll take after marriage (if you plan to change your name), and your parents' legal names and places of birth. Most couples apply for a Standard license, which means your marriage becomes part of the public record, but your information cannot be searched online. If you prefer, you can apply for a Confidential license, which does not become part of the public record, but you must already be living with your future spouse to choose this option.
Broward County, Florida:
There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in Florida. A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. If either party has been previously married, the exact date of death, divorce, or annulment of the last marriage is required. All applicants must complete a form providing information about any common children they have, including names, dates of birth, birth certificate numbers, and places of birth. If you and your future spouse elect to attend a premarital course from a registered provider, the marriage license fee is lowered, and the waiting period is waived upon providing a certificate of completion. Additionally, both parties must sign an affidavit indicating that they have read the Family Law Handbook before obtaining a marriage license.
New York City:
Information about the requirements for a marriage license in New York City is limited. However, it appears that appointments are required, and walk-in visits are not permitted.
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Steps to get a marriage certificate
The process of obtaining a marriage certificate varies depending on the region and whether the marriage took place in the same country in which the certificate is being requested. Here is a general step-by-step guide on how to obtain a marriage certificate:
Apply for a Marriage License:
Before getting married, you must first obtain a marriage license. This typically involves visiting the local government office, such as the County Clerk or City Clerk's office, to fill out the necessary paperwork. Both parties must be present and provide valid photo identification, such as a government-issued ID, along with other personal information. This may include full legal names, places and dates of birth, parents' legal names and places of birth, and previous marital status. Some locations may require proof of completion of a premarital course or affidavit indicating knowledge of the Family Law Handbook.
Get Married Within the Specified Timeframe:
Marriage licenses are typically valid for a limited period, usually between 30 days to a year, depending on the issuing state or country. Ensure that you get married within this timeframe, as the license will expire otherwise. There may also be a mandatory waiting period before the marriage can take place.
Return the Completed Marriage License:
After the marriage ceremony, the signed and completed marriage license must be returned to the appropriate government office, such as the Clerk-Recorder's Office or the Central Courthouse Marriage Division, within a specified timeframe, often around 10 business days. This step initiates the process of converting the marriage license into a marriage certificate.
Order a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate:
Once the completed marriage license has been recorded and processed, you can order a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This can typically be done online or in person, depending on the region. Provide the necessary information, such as full names, date and place of marriage, and officiant details. You may also need to submit additional identification or documentation to prove your relationship.
Receive Your Marriage Certificate:
After submitting your application and completing any required identity verification processes, you will receive your certified marriage certificate. It is typically shipped directly from the government vital records agency to the provided address. This process may take a few business days, and some agencies offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee.
It is important to note that the specific steps and requirements may vary based on your location, so it is always a good idea to check with the relevant government office or vital records agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Processing times for marriage certificates
In Illinois, obtaining an original marriage certificate is straightforward, and you can typically receive your certificate within a few weeks. The officiant will file your marriage license with the County Clerk's office, after which you can request a certified copy by visiting the office in person or making an online request.
In Florida, a marriage license is valid in any county for 60 days after issuance. After the marriage ceremony, the original marriage license must be signed by the officiant and returned to the Central Courthouse Marriage Division within 10 days. A certified copy will then be sent to the provided address.
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Marriage certificate fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage certificate vary depending on the location and type of certificate. Here is a summary of the fees mentioned in the sources:
Santa Clara County:
To purchase a standard marriage certificate, you must be listed on the certificate or be authorised to purchase it. The fee for a Certified Informational copy of a marriage certificate is not mentioned, but it is mentioned that this type of copy is generally not accepted as proof of marriage.
Broward County, Florida:
Broward County offers a reduced marriage license fee of $61 for couples who elect to attend a premarital course from a registered provider. This option also waives the usual waiting period. A Civil Marriage ceremony can also be performed in the Marriage Division for an additional $30 fee.
St. Lucie County, Florida:
Marriage licenses in St. Lucie County can be obtained by applying online and then scheduling a video conference. The fee for the marriage license is not specified, but there is a mention of a $1 fee for purchasing an envelope at the marriage counter.
Florida Department of Health:
The Florida Department of Health charges a $5 search fee for all orders, which is non-refundable. Rush orders require an additional $10 fee. Payments can be made in the form of cash, check, money order, Visa, or Mastercard for walk-in applications. For mail-in applications, payments should be made payable to "Vital Statistics" by check or money order. International payments must be made by cashier's check or money order in US dollars drawn upon a US bank.
It is important to note that marriage license fees and waiting periods may vary depending on the state and county where the marriage is taking place. Be sure to check with your local county clerk's office or the relevant government department for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding marriage certificate fees.
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Frequently asked questions
In California, the processing time for a marriage certificate can vary from county to county. It typically takes a few weeks, but some counties like San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego offer same-day issuance.
In Illinois, the officiant will file your marriage license with the County Clerk's office, where it was issued, after your wedding. Once it's recorded, you can request a certified copy. Processing times can vary, but you typically receive your certificate within a few weeks.
After your wedding, your officiant will send your signed marriage license to the Clerk-Recorder's Office in the county where the wedding took place. You can then visit the Clerk-Recorder's Office in person, request a copy online, or send a written request with the necessary details and payment.
A marriage license is the legal document you obtain before your wedding that authorizes you to get married. A marriage certificate, on the other hand, is the official document that proves you are legally married and is required for various legal and administrative purposes after the wedding.
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