How to Register for Marriage

There are just a few things you absolutely have to do before the big day. One of them is to register with the state in which you plan to be wed. Here's how to go about it.

Instructions

STEP 1: Contact the government office that handles registrations in the city, county or state where your wedding will take place. The specific office may be called Public Records or Registrar. Call the main administrative number if you're unsure.

STEP 2: Check with this office a minimum of three months before your wedding date, although the mandatory registering date is often a mere three days before your wedding.

STEP 3: Make a list of any documents the office tells you to bring with you when applying for a marriage license.

STEP 4: Be prepared to provide the bride's and groom's legal names, addresses, ages and previous marital histories, if any. If either of you has been married before, you will have to show records of annulment or divorce or the previous spouse's death certificate.

STEP 5: Ask about fees. Cash and credit cards are usually accepted.

STEP 6: Be prepared for a waiting period, although this varies across the country.

STEP 7: Keep in mind that special rules may apply if your prospective spouse is not a U.S. citizen. Be sure to ask about this.

STEP 8: Remember to ask what you must do once the ceremony is completed, in case there are any follow-up forms that need to be filled out.

Tips & Warnings

--It's usually best if you have all the paperwork out of the way before the big day.
--Marriage requirements vary by state. For example, some states require blood tests. In addition, you may need a birth certificate or a positive identification such as a driver's license or passport.

 

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