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

Picture this: you’ve found the one, planned the perfect proposal, and are now ready to take the next step towards forever. But before you can say “I do,” there’s one important factor that often gets overlooked in the midst of wedding planning – getting a marriage license. If you’re tying the knot in the beautiful state of New Jersey, you may be wondering: how much is a marriage license? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey, from costs to requirements and everything in between. So grab your partner’s hand and let’s dive into all things marriage license in the Garden State.

Overview of Marriage Licenses in New Jersey

In the state of New Jersey, a marriage license is required for couples looking to get married. This legal document serves as proof of the couple’s intention to marry and must be obtained before their wedding ceremony takes place. A marriage license is only valid for a limited time, typically 30 days, and must be acquired from the Registrar of Vital Statistics in the town where the ceremony will occur.

Eligibility for Obtaining a Marriage License

To be eligible for obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey, both individuals must meet certain requirements. They must both be at least 18 years old (16 with parental consent) and cannot already be legally married or blood relatives. Both parties also need to appear in person at the Registrar’s office and bring proper identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

Application Process for a Marriage License

The application process for a marriage license can differ slightly depending on the county in which you are getting married. In most cases, both parties will need to fill out an application form and provide necessary documentation such as proof of age and proof of residency. A fee is also typically required upon submission of the application.

Once approved, there is usually waiting period before the license can be picked up, typically 72 hours in New Jersey. Additionally, there may be mandatory counseling sessions or blood tests required before obtaining the license.

Cost of a Marriage License in New Jersey

The cost of obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey varies depending on the county but ranges from $28 to $90. The fee is non-refundable regardless if the couple decides not to go through with their marriage or if they are denied their application.

Given that each county has its own Registrar’s office and set fees, it is important for couples to research the specific costs in their county before beginning the application process.

Validity and Expiration of a Marriage License

A marriage license in New Jersey is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. The marriage ceremony must take place within this time frame, or the couple will need to reapply for a new license.

In the case of any delays or issues with the wedding ceremony, it is recommended to contact the Registrar’s office for an extension of the license. This typically involves filling out an affidavit explaining why an extension is needed and paying an additional fee.

After Obtaining the Marriage License

Once you have received your marriage license, it is important to review it carefully for any errors or discrepancies. Any corrections needed should be addressed with the Registrar before the wedding ceremony takes place.

After the wedding ceremony, one copy of the signed license will be given to you, and another copy will be sent by the officiant to be filed with the appropriate government agency within 10 days. A certified copy can also be requested for a fee and may be needed for legal name changes or other official purposes.

Marriage License Alternatives

In some cases, couples may find that obtaining a marriage license is not feasible or desired. In these situations, they may look into alternative options such as civil unions or domestic partnerships. These partnerships offer similar legal rights and benefits as marriage but do not require a traditional marriage license.

It is important to note that while these alternatives may be valid in certain states, they may not carry over if couples move to another state.

Obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey can seem like a daunting task with various requirements and fees involved. However, being well-informed about the process can make it less intimidating. It is recommended that couples thoroughly research their specific county’s requirements and fees to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Getting married is a significant moment in one’s life, and it is essential to have all the necessary paperwork in order. By following the proper procedures and guidelines, couples can obtain their marriage license smoothly and begin their journey into marriage with ease.

Understanding Marriage License Requirements in New Jersey

Before getting married in the state of New Jersey, it is important to understand the requirements for obtaining a marriage license. This legal document signifies the official union between two individuals and is required for a marriage to be recognized by the state. Knowing the process and cost of obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey is crucial in planning your dream wedding. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about how much a marriage license costs in New Jersey and the process of obtaining one.

Marriage License Cost in New Jersey

The cost of obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey varies depending on where you apply for it. The standard fee for a marriage license is $28, plus an additional $10 if you require certified copies of your marriage certificate. These fees are payable by cash or check when applying for the license. Some municipalities may also charge an additional administrative fee, which can range from $3 to $5.

How Long is a Marriage License Valid?

Once issued, a marriage license will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means that you must get married during this time frame, or you will need to reapply for a new license. After 30 days have passed, your marriage license will expire, and you must go through the application process again.

Marriage License Application Process

To obtain a marriage license, both parties must appear together at their local registrar’s office or where they intend to get married. You do not have to be residents of New Jersey to apply for a marriage license in the state; however, if neither party is a resident, then you must apply for the license in the municipality where the ceremony will take place.

When applying for a marriage license, both parties must bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will also be required to provide your social security numbers, but if either party does not have a social security number, then you must sign an affidavit stating so.

Required Documents and Information

In addition to valid photo identification and social security numbers, you will be asked to provide the following information when applying for a marriage license in New Jersey:

– Full name
– Date and place of birth
– Current address
– Mother’s maiden name and state of birth
– Father’s full name and state of birth
– Name and address of the officiant who will perform the marriage ceremony

If either party was previously married, you will also need to provide the date of your divorce or death of your former spouse. Some municipalities may require proof of any prior divorces or annulments.

Waiting Period

There is no waiting period in New Jersey for a marriage license. This means that once you have applied for your license and it has been issued, you can get married right away. However, keep in mind that your marriage license is only valid for 30 days.

Marriage Ceremony

After obtaining your marriage license, you must have a ceremony performed within the state of New Jersey by an authorized officiant. This includes judges, mayors, ordained ministers, and other religious clergy members.

During the ceremony, both parties must sign the marriage license along with two witnesses over the age of 18. The officiant will then complete all necessary information on the license and return it to the registrar’s office for recording.

Obtaining a Certified Copy

If you require certified copies of your marriage certificate, they can be obtained from the registrar’s office after your marriage has been recorded. Certified copies cost an additional $10 per copy and are usually available within 2-3 weeks of your ceremony.

Obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey is a fairly straightforward process, but it is essential to understand the requirements and costs involved. Make sure to apply for your license well in advance of your wedding date to allow ample time for processing and recording. With this comprehensive guide, you can now confidently apply for a marriage license and officially start your journey as a married couple in the state of New Jersey.

1) What is the cost of a marriage license in New Jersey?
The cost of a marriage license in New Jersey varies by county, but it is typically between $28 to $90.
2) How do I pay for a marriage license in New Jersey?
You can pay using cash, money order, or credit/debit card at the county clerk’s office where you apply for the license.
3) Do I need to be a resident of New Jersey to obtain a marriage license?
No, you do not need to be a resident of New Jersey. However, you must apply for the license in the county where you intend to get married.
4) Is there a waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license becomes valid. This waiting period can be waived for an additional fee.
5) Do I need any documents to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey?
Yes, both parties must bring valid identification (e.g. driver’s license or passport) and their social security numbers, if they have one.
6) Can I get married immediately after getting the marriage license in New Jersey?
No, you must wait at least 72 hours after obtaining the license before getting married. The license is valid for 30 days from the date it was issued.

In conclusion, the process of obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey involves a few simple steps, but it is an important legal requirement that should not be overlooked by couples planning to get married. As discussed, the cost of a marriage license varies depending on the county, but on average it ranges from $28 to $90. Additional fees may also apply for certified copies and ceremony fees. It is important to note that couples must apply for their license together and provide valid forms of identification.

Furthermore, there are also certain requirements that must be met in order to obtain a marriage license in New Jersey, such as being at least 18 years old and not currently in a marriage or civil union. In some cases, parental consent may be necessary for those under the age of 18.

It is also crucial to keep in mind that once a marriage license is obtained, it is only valid for 30 days and must be used within that time frame. After the ceremony takes place, the officiant must return the signed license to the county office within five days.

Ultimately, understanding the process and cost of obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey can help couples avoid any delays or complications when planning their special day. By following the guidelines and requirements set by the state, couples can ensure that

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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.