Unlocking the Cost: How Much Is a Marriage License in Arkansas?

Marriage is a sacred bond between two individuals, a declaration of love and commitment to share life’s adventures together. And while it is a beautiful and joyous occasion, there are practical aspects that need to be addressed before walking down the aisle. One of these essential requirements is obtaining a marriage license. But for couples planning to tie the knot in Arkansas, the question arises: how much does a marriage license cost in the Natural State? In this article, we will delve into the details of obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas and provide you with all the information you need to know. So if you’re ready to say “I do” in the land of mountains, rivers, and plains, keep reading!

How to Obtain a Marriage License in Arkansas

Getting married is an exciting and life-changing event, and one of the first steps in planning a wedding is obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Arkansas, couples must follow specific guidelines and procedures to obtain a marriage license. This article will dive into the process of getting a marriage license in Arkansas.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for a marriage license, couples must ensure they are eligible to get married in the state of Arkansas. The requirements for getting married in Arkansas include:

– Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
– Neither party can be currently married.
– Couples do not need to be residents of Arkansas. Non-residents can also apply for a marriage license.
– If either party has been divorced, they must provide proof that their divorce decree is final.
– Blood relatives cannot marry, including first cousins.

Applying for a Marriage License

To obtain a marriage license, both parties must appear together at the County Clerk’s office and complete an application. The application will require basic personal information such as names, addresses, and date of birth. Both parties will also need to provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Additionally, there is an application fee that varies by county but typically ranges from $30-$50. It is best to contact your County Clerk’s office ahead of time to confirm the fee amount and acceptable forms of payment.

Waiting Period

After submitting the application and paying the fee, there is a two-day waiting period before the license can be issued. This waiting period begins on the day you submit your application and does not include weekends or holidays.

The waiting period ensures that both parties have had time to think about their decision and are fully committed to getting married. However, if there are extenuating circumstances, such as an impending military deployment, couples can apply for a waiver to bypass the waiting period.

Validity and Expiration

Once the marriage license is issued, it is valid for 60 days. This means that the couple must get married within those 60 days, or they will need to apply for a new marriage license. The marriage license can be used anywhere in the state of Arkansas.

If a couple gets married outside of Arkansas and then moves to the state, their out-of-state marriage license will still be recognized as long as it was obtained legally in that state.

Officiant Requirements

In Arkansas, there are specific requirements for who can officiate a wedding. These include:

– Ordained ministers of religion
– Active justices of the peace
– Current judges or retired judges with good standing with their bar association
– Quakers or other religious societies with no ordained ministers

Couples can also choose to have a secular/personal friend officiate their wedding by obtaining authorization from the county clerk’s office.

After the Wedding

After getting married, the officiant is responsible for completing and signing the marriage certificate. They must return it to the County Clerk’s office within 60 days of the wedding for it to be recorded and registered.

Once registered, copies of the marriage certificate can be purchased from your County Clerk’s office for an additional fee. These copies may be needed for name changes on legal documents or insurance policies.

Obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas is a relatively straightforward process as long as couples meet all eligibility requirements. It is essential to plan ahead and complete all necessary steps at least two days before your desired wedding date. By following these guidelines, you and your partner will be one step closer to happily ever after in The Natural State.

Overview of Marriage License in Arkansas

When two people choose to get married in Arkansas, they must obtain a marriage license before the ceremony can take place. This legal document is required by the state and serves as proof of a legal marriage. Without it, a marriage is not recognized by the state.

Who is Eligible to Obtain a Marriage License in Arkansas?

In order to obtain a marriage license in Arkansas, both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If one or both parties are under the age of 18, parental consent will be required. Additionally, individuals who are already married or closely related (such as siblings or first cousins) are not eligible to obtain a marriage license in Arkansas.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License in Arkansas

Marriage licenses can be obtained from any county clerk’s office in Arkansas. The couple must physically go to the office together and present valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Some counties may also require proof of residency before issuing a marriage license.

How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Arkansas?

The cost of obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas varies by county but typically falls within the range of $60-$100. This fee must be paid at the time of application and can usually be paid with cash, check, or credit/debit card.

Waiting Period and Expiration of Marriage License

After applying for a marriage license, there is typically a 3-day waiting period before it can be issued. This means that the couple must wait at least three days before their wedding ceremony can take place. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties have completed premarital counseling with an approved provider.

It’s important to note that marriage licenses expire if they are not used within 60 days of the issue date. This means that the couple must have their ceremony within 60 days or reapply for a new marriage license.

Requirements for Officiants

In Arkansas, there are several types of individuals who are authorized to officiate a wedding ceremony and sign the marriage license. These include ordained ministers, justices of the peace, and judges. However, some counties may also allow for temporary officiants to perform ceremonies with specific authorization from the county clerk’s office.

Changing Your Name on a Marriage License

If one or both individuals plan to change their last name after getting married, this can be done on the marriage license application. If this is not done at the time of application, it can be changed after the marriage has taken place by obtaining a certified copy of the marriage certificate from the county clerk’s office.

Additional Requirements for Non-US Citizens

Non-US citizens are also eligible to obtain a marriage license in Arkansas as long as they provide proper documentation. This includes a valid passport and any visas required by their country of origin. However, some counties may have additional requirements so it’s important to check with your local county clerk’s office before applying for a marriage license.

Obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas is an important step in legalizing one’s marriage. With proper documentation and adherence to state laws and regulations, obtaining a marriage license should be a simple process. It’s important for couples to plan ahead and apply for their license early in order to ensure that they have all requirements fulfilled before their big day.

1. How much does a marriage license cost in Arkansas?
The cost of a marriage license in Arkansas is $60. This fee is payable at the time of application.

2. Is there a waiting period to get a marriage license in Arkansas?
Yes, there is a waiting period of three (3) business days after the application is submitted. However, this waiting period can be waived through a court order.

3. Are there any discounts available for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas?
No, there are no discounts available for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas. The fee remains the same for all applicants.

4. Can I apply for a marriage license online in Arkansas?
No, you cannot apply for a marriage license online in Arkansas. Both parties must appear in person at the County Clerk’s office to complete the application process.

5. What forms of payment are accepted for a marriage license in Arkansas?
Most County Clerk’s offices accept cash, credit/debit cards, and money orders as forms of payment for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas.

6. Is there an expiration date on a marriage license obtained in Arkansas?
Yes, the marriage license will expire after 60 days if not used. After the wedding ceremony takes place and the officiant returns the completed and signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office within 60 days, it becomes valid and has no expiration date.

In conclusion, the cost of a marriage license in Arkansas is $60. This fee may vary slightly depending on the county where the license is applied for. However, this amount pales in comparison to the many benefits and legal protections that a marriage license grants to a couple. From tax benefits to inheritance rights, a marriage license solidifies the legal union between two individuals and provides them with numerous advantages.

Additionally, obtaining a marriage license requires fulfilling certain requirements such as age, identification, and possibly attending pre-marriage counseling. These steps serve to ensure that individuals are making a conscious and informed decision to enter into marriage.

Furthermore, marriage licenses are not only important for the couple getting married but also for society as a whole. Marriage licenses help maintain social order by establishing clear legal boundaries within relationships and promoting stability in families.

Overall, while there may be a cost associated with obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas, it is undoubtedly an investment in creating a strong and lasting partnership. It symbolizes commitment, love, and dedication not only to each other but also to the institution of marriage. So if you’re planning to tie the knot in Arkansas, remember that while love may be priceless, securing your marriage with a license comes at an affordable price.

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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.