Marriage License vs. Certificate: Key Differences Explained
When it comes to getting married, there are a lot of legalities involved that can sometimes be confusing. One of the most common sources of confusion is the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate. This blog post will explore the key differences between these two critical documents and explain their roles in the marriage process.
What is a Marriage license?
Before saying "I do," couples must obtain a marriage license, a legal document that permits them to marry. A federal jurisdiction, such as a district court, usually issues it. A marriage license is legal proof from the issuing government that no requirements will prevent you from legally marrying. It is important to note that receiving an issued marriage license does not mean that you are legally married, as it must still be presented during the ceremony and signed by the officiant, the couple, and a few witnesses who are present. This signing serves as a legal record of the marriage and is used to create the official marriage certificate. Once the ceremony is complete and the marriage license is signed, the couple is officially married in the eyes of the law.
Benefits of a marriage license:
- It legally allows couples to marry.
- Ensures the marriage is recognized and meets all legal requirements.
- It helps to maintain accurate public records of marriages.
- Confirms both parties to a fraudulent marriage.
- It designates the officiants to perform the marriage ceremony legally.
- Protects both partners' legal rights
- It is a prerequisite for obtaining a marriage certificate, which is necessary for legal and personal purposes.
Recommended read: 10 Life-Changing Benefits of Marriage You’ve Never Considered
Obtaining a Marriage License
The county court clerk usually issues marriage licenses, but some states issue them from town halls or marriage license offices. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license vary by state but typically include providing identification, paying a fee, and meeting specific age requirements. In some states, couples may also be required to undergo premarital counseling or blood tests before they can receive their marriage license.
Once a couple has obtained their marriage license, there is usually a waiting period of 90 days before they can officially tie the knot. This waiting period allows for any objections to the marriage to be raised and gives couples a chance to make sure they are fully prepared for marriage. Once the waiting period has passed, the couple can schedule their marriage ceremony and make their union official.
Marriage license fees
Marriage license fees vary from state to state but range from $35 to $150.Acceptable payment methods vary, so you may want to research your state’s accepted payment forms.
How can I apply for a marriage license?
Some counties allow you to complete an online marriage license application before your appointment. Others accept walk-ins. Either way, you and your future spouse must be there in person before you can apply for and obtain a marriage license. On the day you plan to use for your marriage license, be sure to bring the required supporting documents with at least two forms of identification (say, a driver's license, birth certificate, passport, etc.).
What Is a Marriage Certificate?
A marriage certificate is a document you receive after your wedding, serving as proof of your legal marriage. It details the ceremony's date, time, and place, the names of the couple and a few witnesses, and often includes the officiant's name.
You may also like to read: Choosing A Wedding Date That Helps You Enjoy The Special Day
Benefits of a Marriage Certificate:
- Facilitates sharing health benefits
- Assists with filing taxes
- Essential for applying for home loans or mortgages
- Useful for proving identity or traveling internationally
- Change of name/address
- A legal requirement when planning a divorce
Obtaining a Marriage Certificate
After the marriage ceremony and the marriage license have been signed, the couple will receive a marriage certificate as proof of their marriage. In some states, the marriage certificate may be issued automatically after the ceremony, while in others, the couple may need to request a copy from the county clerk's office.
Marriage certificate fees
Like a marriage license, the cost of a marriage certificate varies from state to state. The fee ranges from $5 to $26 and must be paid as an acceptable fee applicable to your particular state.
How can I apply for a marriage certificate?
It is the responsibility of the marriage officer to file the marriage license at the place where it was obtained. There is limited time for this step—some states say within ten days, while others say within two months. Once this is done, the application can be processed and validated by the local authority
Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate: Key Differences
Are you wondering if a marriage license is the same as a marriage certificate? The answer is no. The difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate is that the license certifies that you are legally allowed to marry, and the certificate confirms that you are legally married. Therefore, a marriage license is obtained before the marriage ceremony, allowing the couple to marry. In contrast, the certificate is received after the ceremony and proves the marriage. The license is a legal document that allows the marriage to take place, while the certificate is a record of the marriage that is used for legal purposes.
Couples must understand the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate, as both documents play essential roles in the marriage process. By obtaining a marriage license, couples can legally marry and begin their lives together, while the marriage certificate serves as a lasting record of their union.
Final thoughts
The difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate is an essential distinction that all couples should be aware of when planning their wedding. By understanding the roles of the marriage license and certificate and their benefits, couples can ensure they have all the documentation for their marriage to be legally recognized. Whether obtaining a marriage license before the ceremony or requesting a marriage certificate after, it is crucial to follow the legal requirements and procedures to have a successful and legally binding marriage.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a marriage license?
In many states, you can receive your marriage license the same day you apply, provided you have all the necessary documentation and meet the requirements. However, some states have a waiting period between when the license is issued and when the marriage can take place, ranging from 24 hours to several days
What is the validity period of a marriage license?
Once a marriage license is obtained, it is usually valid for a certain period of time—usually 10 days to a year, depending on location—before it expires For example, a marriage license in New York is valid for 60 days after a deadline, while California has a 90-day time limit. In order for your union to be legally recognized, you must perform a marriage ceremony, sign a power of attorney, and submit a certified marriage record within this window.
This content was created by AI
