Unlocking the Knot: How to Obtain a Marriage License in Oklahoma

Getting married is a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a new chapter in a couple’s life. But before two people can legally tie the knot, they must obtain a marriage license. If you’re planning to say “I do” in the state of Oklahoma, you may be wondering about the process for obtaining a marriage license. Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll delve into the steps and requirements for getting a marriage license in Oklahoma and help you prepare for your special day. So let’s take a closer look at how you can make your union official in the Sooner State.

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is a legal document that allows a couple to get married. It is issued by the government or county clerk’s office and serves as proof that the couple is legally allowed to marry. In order to get married in Oklahoma, you must obtain a marriage license beforehand.

Who Can Get Married in Oklahoma?

According to Oklahoma state law, anyone who is 18 years old or older can get married without parental consent. However, individuals who are 16 or 17 years old can also get married with permission from their parents or legal guardians. If one of the parties is under 16 years old, they must obtain permission from a judge in addition to their parents’ consent.

In addition, both parties must have mental capacity and be able to understand what they are consenting to when applying for a marriage license. They also cannot be currently married to someone else, as polygamy is illegal in Oklahoma.

Applying for a Marriage License in Oklahoma

To apply for a marriage license in Oklahoma, both parties must visit the county clerk’s office together and complete an application. This can be done at any county clerk’s office in the state of Oklahoma, regardless of where you plan on getting married.

When filling out the application, you will need to provide basic information such as your name, age, place of residence, and social security number. You will also need to show valid identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

In addition, there may be a waiting period before the license can be issued. In some counties, there is no waiting period while others may require up to three days for processing. It is important to check with your county’s requirements before applying for a marriage license.

Marriage License fees

There are fees associated with obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma. The cost varies by county, but typically ranges from $50 to $80. Some counties may offer a discounted fee for couples who complete a premarital counseling course.

What If I Plan on Getting Married in Oklahoma, but I’m not from the State?

Out-of-state couples can also get married in Oklahoma. However, they must apply for a license in the county where they plan on getting married. If both parties are not able to visit the county clerk’s office together, they can complete and sign an affidavit stating their intent to get married and have it notarized.

Expiration of Marriage License

In Oklahoma, a marriage license is valid for up to 10 days after it is issued. This means that the wedding ceremony must take place within those 10 days. After that time period, the license will expire and you will have to reapply for a new one.

Who Can Perform Wedding Ceremonies in Oklahoma?

In order for your marriage to be legally recognized in Oklahoma, the ceremony must be performed by an authorized individual. This includes ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, judges, and any other person authorized by a religious organization. Friends or family members cannot legally perform wedding ceremonies in Oklahoma.

After the Wedding Ceremony

After the wedding ceremony has taken place and has been officially documented and signed by both parties and the officiant, you must return your signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office where it was issued. This should be done within 30 days of your wedding date.

Upon receiving the signed license, the clerk’s office will record and file it. You can then obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the clerk’s office for legal purposes such as changing your name or updating documents.

Obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma is a straightforward process, but it is an important step in getting married. It is important to follow the regulations set by the state to ensure that your marriage is recognized as legal. Remember to check with your county clerk’s office for specific requirements and fees before applying for your marriage license. Once you have obtained your license, you can focus on planning your dream wedding and starting your new life together as a married couple.

Overview of Marriage Licenses in Oklahoma

Marriage is a legally recognized union between two individuals, creating new familial rights and responsibilities. In the state of Oklahoma, obtaining a marriage license is a necessary step to legally marry your partner. This license grants permission for the couple to marry and verifies that they have met all requirements set by the state. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a marriage license in Oklahoma.

Eligibility for Marriage in Oklahoma

Before applying for a marriage license in Oklahoma, it’s important to ensure that you and your partner meet all eligibility requirements. Both parties must be at least 18 years of age or have parental consent if they are between 16-17 years old. They must not be blood relatives and must not currently be married or in a domestic partnership with anyone else.

If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of their previous spouse. The state also does not allow same-sex marriages. However, individuals who have undergone gender reassignment may apply for a marriage license under their new gender identity.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License

In Oklahoma, couples can obtain their marriage license from any county court clerk’s office. If both parties are residents of the county where they plan to marry, they can apply at that county’s court clerk office. Non-residents may apply at any county court clerk office within the state.

It’s recommended to make an appointment before visiting the office as some counties require it. The application process may take up to 30 minutes, so it’s advised to arrive with enough time in hand.

Application Process

To begin the application process, both parties must appear together with valid government-issued photo identification such as driver’s licenses or passports. They’ll then need to fill out an application and sign in front of a court clerk.

The couple must also provide their full names, dates of birth, current addresses, social security numbers, and information about their parents. If either party has been previously married, they’ll need to provide the date the marriage ended and how it ended (divorce or death).

Waiting Period and Expiration

Once the application is submitted, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the marriage license can be issued. This waiting period can be waived by a judge for good cause if necessary. The marriage license is valid for 10 days from the date of issuance and expires after that time.

Cost of Marriage License

The cost of obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma is $50. However, additional fees may apply depending on the county. Some counties accept cash only, while others may accept credit or debit cards as well.

Couples who complete premarital counseling from a counselor registered with the state can receive a discount on their marriage license fee. This discount varies by county but typically ranges from $5-$20 off.

Marriage Ceremony

After obtaining the marriage license, couples are required to have their ceremony performed within 10 days in Oklahoma. The ceremony must be performed by an ordained minister or priest, elder authorized by a recognized religious society, judge, or justice of peace.

The officiant must complete and sign the marriage license along with two witnesses over the age of 18 who are not related to either party. The officiant then returns the completed license to the court clerk within five days to have it officially recorded.

Changing Names after Marriage

Changing your name after marriage in Oklahoma requires updating your Social Security card and driver’s license with your new name. You’ll also need to update any other documents such as bank accounts and insurance policies.

To change your name on your Social Security card, you’ll need to complete an application and provide your marriage license and proof of identification. Once your new Social Security card is issued, you can then update your name with the DMV to receive a new driver’s license.

Obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma is a straightforward process; however, it’s important to ensure that all eligibility requirements are met before applying. By following the application process and completing premarital counseling, couples can easily obtain their marriage license and legally marry in the state of Oklahoma. As always, it’s recommended to contact the county court clerk for any specific guidelines or requirements in their county.

1. What is the process to obtain a marriage license in Oklahoma?
The process for obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma involves filling out an application, providing documentation, and paying a fee.

2. What documents are needed to apply for a marriage license in Oklahoma?
To apply for a marriage license in Oklahoma, you will need to provide a valid form of identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) and your Social Security number.

3. Can I apply for a marriage license online in Oklahoma?
No, currently there is no option to apply for a marriage license online in Oklahoma. You must apply in person at any county clerk’s office.

4. Are there any age requirements to obtain a marriage license in Oklahoma?
Yes, both parties must be 18 years of age or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If under 18, you will need parental consent and may also be required to attend an educational program.

5. How much does it cost to get a marriage license in Oklahoma?
The cost for a marriage license in Oklahoma is $50, which can be paid by cash or check at the county clerk’s office. This fee may vary by county.

6. Is there a waiting period after obtaining the marriage license before we can get married?
Yes, there is a 72-hour waiting period after receiving the marriage license before the ceremony can take place. However, this waiting period may be waived by the county clerk under certain circumstances.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma is a relatively simple process that requires some basic information and documentations. Couples must be at least 18 years of age and provide valid identification as well as proof of any previous marriages ending. The application can be completed online or in person, and a waiting period of 72 hours is required before the license can be issued. It should also be noted that the cost and validity of the license may vary depending on the county in which it is obtained.

While the process may seem straightforward, it is important for couples to carefully follow the guidelines set by the state to ensure that their marriage is officially recognized. Failure to do so can result in legal complications or even voiding of the marriage. Additionally, it may also be beneficial for couples to undergo premarital counseling to strengthen their relationship and prepare for a successful marriage.

Overall, getting a marriage license in Oklahoma is an essential step towards starting a life together as a married couple. It serves as an official declaration of commitment and love between two individuals. By following the necessary procedures and fulfilling all requirements, couples can obtain their marriage license with ease and embark on their journey towards a happily ever after.