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Making It Official: Everything You Need To Know To Legally Get Married


Congratulations, lovebirds! You’ve said yes to forever, and now it’s time to dive into the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) world of wedding planning. But before you get lost in Pinterest boards, venue tours and cake tastings, let’s tackle one crucial part of tying the knot: the legalities.






Here’s a quick, easy guide to help you navigate the process of making your marriage official.


1. Know the Requirements in Your State

Marriage laws vary by state, so the first step is to research what’s required where you’ll tie the knot. Most states require:

  • Proof of age (typically 18+ or parental consent if younger).

  • Government-issued photo IDs (like a driver’s license or passport).

  • Proof of the end of any previous marriages (e.g., divorce decree or death certificate).


Pro tip: If you’re planning a destination wedding, research both your home state and the wedding location’s requirements to ensure your marriage is valid. Many couples legally marry in their home state before or after the destination wedding to make the process easier.


2. Apply for a Marriage License

A marriage license is your golden ticket to legal matrimony. Here’s how to get one:

  • Where to Apply: Your local county clerk’s office.

  • When to Apply: Most but not all licenses are valid for a set period (e.g., 30-90 days), so don’t apply too early. Also, some states have a waiting period, so call ahead and plan accordingly.

  • What You’ll Pay: Fees range from $25 to $100, depending on your state. Many places only accept cash, so check ahead.


Money saving fact: Some states offer discounts if you’ve completed a premarital counseling course—a great way to strengthen your communication and build a solid foundation for your future!


Money saving bonus: Add premarital counseling to your bridal shower wish list so you don’t have to pay for it. 


3. Choose Your Wedding Officiant

Your officiant is the person who makes your marriage legal and is the person who speaks and leads your wedding ceremony. Choosing a wedding officiant should not be taken lightly as you want someone who is confident and comfortable in what they are doing. Options include:

  • Religious leaders (priests, rabbis, etc.).

  • Civil officiants (judges or justices of the peace).

  • Ordained and Licensed Officiants

  • A friend or family member ordained online (check if this is allowed in your state).


Ensure your officiant knows how to complete and return your marriage license post-ceremony. 


4. Sign on the Dotted Line

On the big day, your marriage license needs to be signed and completed by:

  • Your officiant.

In some states your marriage license also needs to be signed by:

  • You and your partner.

  • Witnesses (typically one or two).

Make sure everyone involved uses their legal name and follows the instructions exactly—this is not the time for creative signatures!


5. File Your Marriage License

After the ceremony, it’s your officiant’s responsibility to file the signed marriage license with the appropriate office. In some cases, if you need your certified marriage certificate right away, you or your spouse may be able to file the signed marriage license with the clerk of court. Once the marriage license is processed, you’ll receive a certified marriage certificate, which you’ll need for:

  • Name changes.

  • Joint tax filings.

  • Updating insurance policies and legal documents.

  • Spousal visa process


6. Bonus Tip: International Weddings

If you’re getting married abroad, double-check that your marriage will be recognized in the U.S. You may need to complete additional steps, like getting your foreign marriage certificate translated and authenticated. Just like destination weddings, to make the process easier many couples choose to legally get married in their home state before or after their international wedding.


Let Your Love Story Begin!

While the legal steps may not be as glamorous as picking a dress or planning your honeymoon, they’re essential for starting your marriage on the right foot. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to make it official and focus on what really matters—celebrating the union of your love.


Cheers to your happily ever after!


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Lawrenceville, GA 30046

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