Unlock Your Happily Ever After: The Complete Guide to Obtaining a Marriage License in CT

Congratulations, you’ve found the love of your life and you’re ready to tie the knot. But before you can say your “I do’s”, there is one important step that needs to be taken care of – obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning on saying “I do” in the beautiful state of Connecticut, you may be wondering how to go about getting your hands on that all-important document. Well, worry no more because in this article we will guide you through the process and provide all the necessary information on how to obtain a marriage license in CT. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s get started on making your dream wedding a reality!

What is a Marriage License

A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes two individuals to enter into a legally recognized marriage. It serves as proof of the couple’s eligibility to marry and gives them the legal right to get married. A marriage license is an important document that must be obtained before a wedding can take place.

In Connecticut, marriage licenses are issued by town clerks’ offices. Before getting a marriage license, both parties must appear together in person at the clerk’s office and fill out an application. The license is valid for 65 days from the date of issue, and the wedding ceremony must take place within that time frame.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in CT

To obtain a marriage license in Connecticut, there are certain requirements the couple must meet:

Age Requirement:

Both parties must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. If either party is between 16-18 years old, they will need written parental consent from both parents or guardian. If either party is under 16 years old, they cannot get married in Connecticut.

Residency Requirement:

There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in CT. The couple can be from any state or country.

Identification Requirement:

Both parties must provide valid photo identification such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID, or passport when applying for a marriage license.

Previous Marriages:

If either party has been previously married, they must provide documentation of their divorce or death certificate of their former spouse.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License in CT

In order to apply for a marriage license in Connecticut, both parties must go to the town clerk’s office together. The license is only valid in the town in which it was issued. If the couple is planning on getting married outside of that town, they will need to obtain a license from that specific town’s clerk office.

The application process typically takes around 30 minutes, and the license fee varies from town to town. The couple can pay by cash, check, or credit/debit card at most offices.

Marriage License Waiting Period

Once the couple has submitted their application and paid the fee, there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before the license can be picked up. This waiting period ensures that both parties have had time to consider their decision to get married.

If the couple cannot wait the 24 hours due to extenuating circumstances, they can submit a written request for a waiver of the waiting period to the probate court in the town where they are getting married.

Additional Information

Some important things to keep in mind when applying for a marriage license in Connecticut:

– Blood tests are not required.
– Witnesses are not required for the ceremony.
– The marriage license must be presented to the person performing the wedding ceremony.
– After it’s been filled out by the officiant, it must be returned to the town clerk’s office within five days of the wedding ceremony for recording.
– Certified copies of your marriage certificate can be obtained from the town clerk’s office for an additional fee.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut is an important step towards legalizing your union as a married couple. It’s crucial to ensure that you meet all of the requirements and follow each step correctly before your wedding day. By following these guidelines and contacting your local town clerk’s office with any additional questions or concerns, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your marriage license in CT. Congratulations on taking this step towards spending your lives together as a married couple.

Obtaining a marriage license in the state of Connecticut is an important step in making your union official. Whether you are planning a small intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, having a marriage license is vital to legally binding your love. While the process may seem daunting, this guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information on how to obtain a marriage license in CT. From eligibility requirements to necessary documents and fees, we have got you covered.

Residency Requirements

Before applying for a marriage license in Connecticut, it is important to determine if you meet the residency requirements set by the state. Unlike many other states, Connecticut does not have any specific residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license. This means that both residents and non-residents can apply for a marriage license in CT as long as they meet all other criteria.

Age Requirements

In order to legally marry in Connecticut, both parties must be at least 18 years of age or older. If either applicant is under 18 years old, they must obtain written consent from their parent or legal guardian before applying for a marriage license. It’s worth noting that applicants must also be at least 17 years old to obtain written consent.

Identification and Documentation

When applying for a marriage license in Connecticut, both parties must provide valid identification such as driver’s licenses, passports or birth certificates. In addition, you will need to present your social security number as well as your place of birth. If either party has been married before, they will also need to provide proof of their divorce or death certificate of their previous spouse.

Marriage License Application Process

The application process for obtaining a marriage license in CT is relatively straightforward. Both parties must appear before the clerk’s office together and fill out an application form which can be obtained in person or by downloading it online. Once the application is completed, you will be required to pay a fee of $30. This fee can be paid using cash, credit or debit card. It’s essential to note that the application process may take up to an hour, so make sure you plan accordingly.

Waiting Period and Validity

After submitting your application and paying the fee, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before your marriage license is issued. However, this waiting period can be waived if you have been married before, provided you bring a certified copy of your previous marriage certificate as proof. Once issued, your marriage license will remain valid for 65 days and can be used anywhere within the state of Connecticut.

Civil Ceremonies vs Religious Ceremonies

In Connecticut, couples have the option to choose between a civil or religious ceremony to officiate their marriage. If opting for a civil ceremony, you can either have a justice of peace or a municipal clerk officiate your union. On the other hand, if you choose to have a religious ceremony, you can choose any ordained or licensed religious leader to officiate your marriage.

Obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut may seem like an overwhelming process at first, but with this comprehensive guide, we hope we have made it easier for you. Remember that planning ahead and fulfilling all requirements will ensure that your special day goes without any unwanted hiccups. Congratulations on taking this important step towards forever with your partner!

Q: Who is eligible to obtain a marriage license in Connecticut?
A: To be eligible for a marriage license in Connecticut, both individuals must be at least 18 years old and not be currently married. Those who are 16 or 17 can apply with parental consent.

Q: How long does it take to obtain a marriage license in Connecticut?
A: The process of obtaining a marriage license typically takes about 1-2 weeks. This includes the application, waiting period, and issuance of the actual license.

Q: Do we need to make an appointment to obtain a marriage license?
A: It is recommended to make an appointment with the town clerk’s office where you plan on getting married. However, walk-ins are also accepted but may lead to longer wait times.

Q: What documents do we need to bring when applying for a marriage license?
A: You will need a valid form of identification (driver’s license, state ID, or passport), social security numbers, and birth certificates. If previously married, bring the divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse.

Q: How much does it cost to obtain a marriage license in Connecticut?
A: The cost of obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut ranges from $30-$60 depending on the city/town where you submit your application. This fee must be paid at the time of application.

Q: Can my partner and I apply for our marriage license in different towns/cities in Connecticut?
A: Yes, if you and your partner reside in different towns/cities within Connecticut, you can apply for your marriage license separately at your respective town clerk’s offices. However, both individuals must appear together when signing the actual application.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut is a straightforward process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. From gathering all the necessary documents to scheduling appointments and completing the application, following the steps outlined by the state’s laws and regulations is essential.

Firstly, it is important to know the legal requirements for marriage in Connecticut, including age restrictions and any premarital education or blood tests that may be required. Secondly, applicants must ensure they have all the necessary documents, such as government-issued identification and proof of previous marriages dissolved through divorce or death.

Moreover, to obtain a marriage license in Connecticut, couples must schedule an appointment with a town clerk’s office at least 24 hours before the intended date of marriage. This appointment will involve completing an application and providing all relevant documents.

It is also crucial for couples to understand that each town may have its own additional requirements or fees, so it is best to check with the specific town clerk’s office beforehand. Additionally, non-US citizens may need extra documentation such as a valid passport or an affidavit of eligibility for marriage.

Once these steps are completed and approved by the town clerk’s office, applicants will receive their official marriage license. It is important to note that this license will only be valid for 65 days from the

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Kelsey Garrison

Kelsey Garrison, our esteemed author and a passionate writer in the world of weddings and bridal fashion, has been an integral part of our website since its inception.

With a rich history in creating engaging content, Kelsey has consistently brought fresh insights and valuable information to our readers.

Starting in 2024, Kelsey made a significant transition to focus specifically on the "Wedding/Bridal Fashion, Wedding Tips" niche. This shift was driven by her desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of wedding planning and bridal fashion—a field that blends timeless elegance with contemporary trends.

Her articles are meticulously researched and designed to provide thorough answers and innovative ideas for all things wedding-related.