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

Have you been bitten by the love bug and finally ready to take the leap into marriage? Congratulations, that’s truly an exciting milestone! But before you can start planning your dream wedding, there is one important document that you will need to obtain – a marriage license. Now, if you’re getting married in the state of New Jersey, you may be wondering: how much is a marriage license in NJ? This question is not as simple as it seems, as there are various factors and fees involved. In this article, we will dive into the details of obtaining a marriage license in NJ and break down the costs associated with it. So get ready to say “I do” to all the information you need to know about marriage licenses in the Garden State.

Understanding Marriage Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey is known as the Garden State, but did you know it is also a popular place for couples to tie the knot? If you are planning your marriage ceremony in New Jersey, one of the first things you will need to do is obtain a marriage license. Marriage laws and requirements vary by state, so it’s important to understand the specific regulations in New Jersey. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey.

Who Can Get Married in New Jersey?

In order to legally marry in New Jersey, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, they must have written consent from their parents or legal guardians. Same-sex marriage has been legal in New Jersey since 2013.

The state of New Jersey also does not have any restrictions on marriage between first cousins. However, marriages between ancestor and descendant (such as grandparent and grandchild) or sibling marriages are prohibited.

What Are the Requirements for Getting a Marriage License?

Before applying for a marriage license, both parties must appear together at the Registrar’s office in the town where one of them resides. If both parties are residents of out-of-state, they may apply for a license in whichever town they choose.

You and your partner will need to present government-issued identification such as a driver’s license or passport. In addition, you will both be required to provide your Social Security numbers and mother’s maiden names.

If either party has been previously married or had their previous marriage annulled, they must present proof of divorce or annulment before obtaining a new marriage license.

The Waiting Period

Once you have applied for your marriage license, there is a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. However, a judge or the County Clerk may waive this waiting period for certain circumstances, such as military deployment or illness.

The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means that you and your partner must have your marriage ceremony within 30 days of obtaining the license, otherwise, you will need to apply for a new one.

The Cost of a Marriage License in New Jersey

The fees for obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey vary by county but generally range between $28-$90. Some counties may also charge an additional fee if you choose to have a civil marriage ceremony performed by a judge at the time of obtaining your license.

If you are getting married in New Jersey and planning to have guests attend your ceremony, it’s important to note that New Jersey does not have any witnesses requirements for marriage licenses. This means that you do not need anyone else to witness the application process or sign any paperwork.

Marriage Records and Certificates

Once you have been married and signed your marriage certificate, it is then the responsibility of the officiant (usually a priest, minister, rabbi, judge, or other designated individual) to file your certificate with the Registrar who issued your license. Your marriage records will then be available from that Registrar’s office.

If you need additional copies of your marriage certificate, they can be requested from the same Registrar’s office for a fee. However, please note that these copies are not considered legal documents and cannot be used as proof of marriage in legal proceedings.

Out-of-state Marriage Licenses

If you are planning on getting married in another state but are residents of New Jersey, it’s important to check with that state’s specific laws and requirements before applying for a marriage license. While most states recognize out-of-state licenses as valid, some may require additional documentation or fees.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey is a simple process as long as you fulfill the necessary requirements and follow the procedures outlined by the state. Remember to allow enough time for the waiting period and to have your ceremony within 30 days of obtaining your license. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

Getting married is one of the most exciting and important moments in a person’s life, and for couples looking to tie the knot in New Jersey, one of the first things on their to-do list is obtaining a marriage license. But how much is a marriage license in NJ? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the details of getting a marriage license in the Garden State.

Requirements

Before you can obtain a marriage license in NJ, there are certain requirements that must be met. Both parties must be 18 years or older (or have parental consent if they are between 16-18), not currently married to someone else, and not related by blood or adoptive relationship. Additionally, both parties must present valid forms of identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.

Where to Apply

In order to apply for a marriage license in NJ, you must appear together at the Registrar of Vital Statistics office located within the municipality where either you or your partner reside. If neither of you are residents of NJ, then you can apply at any Registrar office throughout the state. It’s important to note that appointments may be required at some offices.

Application Process

To begin the application process for a marriage license in NJ, both parties will need to complete an application form provided by the Registrar office. This form will contain important information such as full names, addresses, social security numbers and dates of birth for both individuals. It may also require information about previous marriages and/or civil unions.

Once completed and submitted along with proper identification and any necessary fees (more on that later), there will be a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before your marriage license can be issued. However, this waiting period may be waived at the discretion of a judge or by applying for an expedited marriage license.

Costs

The cost of a marriage license in NJ varies depending on the municipality where you apply. On average, the fee can range from $28-$35, and is typically payable by cash or credit/debit card. It’s important to note that some municipalities may have additional fees, so it’s best to check with your particular office before applying.

Expiration and Validity

A marriage license in NJ is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. This means that you must hold your wedding ceremony within those 30 days or else the license will expire and you will need to reapply. Additionally, once the ceremony is performed and the license is signed by an officiant and two witnesses, it must be returned to the Registrar office within 5 days for official recording.

Additional Information

In addition to meeting all the requirements and completing the application process, there are a few more things to consider when getting a marriage license in NJ. First, both parties must speak English fluently or have an interpreter present during the application process. Second, couples may choose any licensed officiant to perform their wedding ceremony, as long as they are registered with the Registrar office.

Lastly, same-sex marriages are recognized and allowed in NJ following a ruling by the Supreme Court in 2013. This means that all couples have equal rights when it comes to obtaining a marriage license and getting married in NJ.

In conclusion, getting a marriage license in NJ involves meeting certain requirements, applying at a Registrar office, paying necessary fees, and adhering to expiration and validity timeframes. While there may be some variations depending on each individual municipality, following these steps will ensure a smooth process for obtaining your marriage license in New Jersey. So whether you’re planning an extravagant wedding or an intimate elopement, now you know all the details about how much a marriage license in NJ costs and how to get one. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials!

Q: How much is a marriage license in NJ?
A: As of 2021, the fee for a marriage license in New Jersey is $28.

Q: Are there any additional fees for a marriage license in NJ?
A: Yes, there may be additional fees charged by the local municipality, such as a processing fee or fee for civil ceremonies.

Q: How can I pay for a marriage license in NJ?
A: The accepted methods of payment may vary by municipality, but typically you can pay for a marriage license with cash, check, or credit/debit card.

Q: Is there a waiting period to receive a marriage license in NJ?
A: Yes, there is a three-day waiting period from the time you apply for a marriage license to when it will be issued. This waiting period can be waived in certain circumstances, such as if one or both parties are active military.

Q: Do I need to be a resident of NJ to obtain a marriage license?
A: No, you do not need to be a resident of New Jersey to obtain a marriage license. However, the license must be used within the state.

Q: How long is a marriage license valid in NJ?
A: A New Jersey marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. If it is not used within that time frame, it will expire and you will need to reapply.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey requires following a set of legal procedures and paying certain fees. The cost of a marriage license in NJ can vary depending on the county, but it typically ranges from $28 to $90. Couples must also provide necessary documents and meet other requirements to be eligible for a marriage license.

It is important to note that the cost of a marriage license is only a small expense compared to the lifelong commitment and journey of marriage. Despite the financial aspect, getting married in New Jersey offers numerous benefits, such as legal recognition and protection for both partners.

Furthermore, the process of obtaining a marriage license in NJ also serves as an opportunity for couples to reflect on their relationship and ensure that they are ready for this significant step. It highlights the importance of communication, trust, and understanding between partners before making such a commitment.

Lastly, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, couples planning to get married in New Jersey must also consider following safety protocols and guidelines set by local authorities. This may include limiting guest numbers or even postponing the ceremony altogether. However, love knows no boundaries, and couples should not let these challenges dampen their excitement for starting a new chapter together.

In conclusion, while there may be some hurdles in obtaining a marriage license in

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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.