Introduction to Missouri Marriage Licenses
To get married in Missouri, couples must obtain a marriage license from the county recorder of deeds office. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance, and the marriage must take place within the state of Missouri.
The marriage license application process in Missouri involves providing required documents, paying the license fee, and waiting for the license to be issued. Both applicants must appear in person and provide a valid government-issued ID.
Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in Missouri
To obtain a marriage license in Missouri, both applicants must be at least 18 years old, or 17 years old with parental consent. They must also provide proof of age, identity, and residency.
Applicants must also provide their social security numbers and disclose any previous marriages or divorces. If either applicant has been previously married, they must provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate.
The Marriage License Application Process in Missouri
The marriage license application process in Missouri typically takes a few minutes to complete. Both applicants must appear in person at the county recorder of deeds office and provide the required documents.
The applicants will be asked to fill out the marriage license application, which includes providing their personal information, marital history, and other relevant details. They will also be required to pay the marriage license fee, which varies by county.
Waiting Period and Expiration of the Marriage License
There is no waiting period to get married in Missouri after obtaining the marriage license. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance, and the marriage must take place within the state of Missouri.
If the marriage license expires before the marriage takes place, the applicants must reapply for a new license and pay the fee again. It is essential to plan the wedding date carefully to avoid any issues with the license expiration.
Finalizing the Marriage License and Obtaining the Marriage Certificate
After the marriage ceremony, the officiant must complete the marriage license and return it to the county recorder of deeds office within 15 days.
The couple can then obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate from the county recorder of deeds office. The marriage certificate is an essential document that serves as proof of marriage and is often required for various purposes, such as changing names, updating identification documents, and applying for benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for getting a marriage license in Missouri?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, provide proof of age and identity, and disclose any previous marriages or divorces.
How long is a Missouri marriage license valid?
A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
Do I need to provide a birth certificate to get a marriage license in Missouri?
No, a birth certificate is not required, but applicants must provide a valid government-issued ID.
Can I get married in Missouri if I'm not a resident?
Yes, non-residents can get married in Missouri, but they must obtain the marriage license from the county recorder of deeds office where the marriage will take place.
How much does a marriage license cost in Missouri?
The marriage license fee varies by county, but it typically ranges from $50 to $100.
Can I get a copy of my marriage certificate online?
No, certified copies of marriage certificates can only be obtained in person or by mail from the county recorder of deeds office where the marriage license was issued.