Unlocking the Knot: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Marriage License in New Jersey

AvatarByKelsey Garrison Marriage

As the saying goes, love knows no boundaries. And for those who have found their special someone in the beautiful state of New Jersey, you may be ready to take the next big step in your relationship – getting married. However, before exchanging vows and saying “I do,” one important step must be taken: applying for a marriage license. The process may seem daunting at first, but fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, making it as easy and stress-free as possible. So grab your partner’s hand and let’s dive into this exciting journey towards forever!

Understanding the Marriage License Process in New Jersey

Getting married is an exciting and important milestone in your life. However, before you can have the perfect wedding, there are certain legal responsibilities that need to be taken care of first. One of these responsibilities is obtaining a marriage license. A marriage license serves as a legal document that officially recognizes your marriage by the state of New Jersey. In this section, we will discuss everything you need to know about applying for a marriage license in New Jersey.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in New Jersey?

In order to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, both parties must be at least 18 years old and not legally married to anyone else. If either party is under the age of 18, they must obtain written consent from their parent or legal guardian and have it notarized. Additionally, blood relatives cannot legally marry each other in New Jersey, except when both parties are over 18 years old and the couple is unable to enter into normal sexual relations due to certain physical or mental conditions.

Where Can You Apply for a Marriage License?

In New Jersey, couples can apply for a marriage license in any County Registrar’s office or any municipal clerk’s office. It is important to note that the couple does not need to apply for a license in the county where they reside or where they plan on getting married.

When Should You Apply for a Marriage License?

In New Jersey, there is no waiting period between obtaining a marriage license and getting married. Once you have your license, you can get married immediately if you wish. However, it is recommended that you apply for your license at least two weeks before your wedding date to allow time for any unforeseen circumstances that may delay the process.

The Application Process

Applying for a marriage license in New Jersey involves a few steps that both parties must complete together. Here’s what you need to know about the application process:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

In order to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, you will need to bring the following documents with you:

– A valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
– Proof of your residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
– Social security numbers for both parties
– If applicable, proof of any prior marriages, such as a divorce decree or death certificate

Step 2: Complete the Marriage License Application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you and your partner must complete a marriage license application. This can be done online through the New Jersey Department of Health or in person at the County Registrar’s office or municipal clerk’s office. The application will ask for basic information about both individuals, including full names, dates of birth, addresses, and parents’ information.

Step 3: Undergo Pre-Marital Counseling

New Jersey requires all couples to undergo pre-marital counseling before getting married. This counseling can be done by either a member of the clergy authorized to perform marriages in New Jersey or by a licensed marriage counselor. The counselor will provide you and your partner with four hours of guidance on marriage preparation using scientifically-proven strategies.

Step 4: Pay the Marriage License Fee

The cost for obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey is $28. This fee must be paid at the time of submitting your application.

After You Obtain Your Marriage License

After completing the above steps and receiving your marriage license, there are still a few things that need to be done before your wedding day.

Getting Married Within the Validity Period

Your marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Once you have your license, you can get married at any time during this period. If the license expires before you get married, you will need to reapply and pay another fee.

Choosing an Officiant

In New Jersey, anyone who is authorized by law to perform marriages can marry couples. This includes a member of the clergy, judges, mayors, or any other person authorized by the Secretary of State. Be sure to confirm that your chosen officiant is legally able to perform marriages in New Jersey.

Filing Your Marriage License After the Ceremony

The officiant will provide you with a marriage certificate after performing your wedding ceremony. It is then your responsibility to file this certificate with the registrar in the same county where you obtained your license within five days of getting married.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey may seem like a daunting process, but it is necessary for ensuring that your marriage is recognized and legal in the state. Be sure to follow all requirements and deadlines to make your application process smooth and hassle-free. Congratulations on taking this exciting

Requirements for Applying for a Marriage License in New Jersey

Before you can tie the knot in the state of New Jersey, you must obtain a marriage license from your local county clerk’s office. This process requires that both partners meet certain requirements in order to be eligible for a marriage license. Here are the requirements for applying for a marriage license in New Jersey:

– Both parties must be at least 18 years old (16 and 17 year olds can obtain a marriage license with parental consent).
– Neither partner can be currently married.
– The couple cannot be related by blood (first cousins are an exception).
– Both parties must be physically present when applying for the license.
– The couple must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
– If either party has been previously married, they must bring documentation of their divorce or death of their former spouse.
– Same-sex couples are eligible to obtain a marriage license in New Jersey.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License in New Jersey

In order to apply for a marriage license, you must go to your local county clerk’s office. Each county has its own clerk’s office, so it’s important that you go to the correct one. You and your partner do not have to apply for the license in the same county where you plan on getting married, but it is recommended to do so.

You can find the contact information and office hours for your local county clerk’s office online or by contacting your town or city hall. Some counties may also allow you to start the application process online and then schedule an appointment to finish it in person.

When applying for a marriage license, it is important to note that both parties must appear before the county clerk together. This ensures that both individuals are aware of and agree to getting married.

The Application Process

To apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, you must complete an application form and pay a fee. The application will ask for basic information about both parties, as well as information about any previous marriages or civil unions.

Once the application is completed, you will be asked to take an oath that the information provided is accurate. You will then sign the application and have it notarized by the county clerk.

After completing the application, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the marriage license can be issued. This waiting period can be waived for special circumstances with approval from a Superior Court judge.

Obtaining Your Marriage License

After waiting the required 72 hours, you can return to the county clerk’s office to pick up your marriage license. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can only be used within the state of New Jersey.

It’s important to note that an officiant cannot perform a marriage ceremony without a valid marriage license. Therefore, it’s essential that you obtain your license before your scheduled ceremony.

Obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey may seem like a daunting process, but it’s actually quite simple as long as you meet all of the requirements and follow the necessary steps. It’s important to plan ahead and make sure all documents are in order before applying for the license.

Remember to contact your local county clerk’s office for specific requirements and instructions. Congratulations on taking this exciting step towards marrying your partner in beautiful New Jersey!

Q: What is the process for applying for a marriage license in New Jersey?
A: The process involves filling out an application, submitting required documents, and paying a fee.

Q: Where can I obtain a marriage license application in New Jersey?
A: You can obtain a marriage license application from any New Jersey local registrar’s office.

Q: What documents do I need to bring when applying for a marriage license in New Jersey?
A: You will need to bring government-issued photo identification, your social security number, and proof of residency.

Q: Is there a waiting period after applying for a marriage license in New Jersey?
A: Yes, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. However, this waiting period can be waived under certain circumstances.

Q: How long is a New Jersey marriage license valid for?
A: A New Jersey marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. If the wedding does not take place within that time frame, the couple will need to reapply for another license.

Q: Can non-residents get married in New Jersey with a marriage license from another state?
A: No, non-residents of New Jersey must apply for a marriage license in the state where they plan to get married.

In conclusion, applying for a marriage license in New Jersey is a relatively straightforward process that requires proper preparation and attention to detail. It is important to gather all necessary documents and fulfill all requirements set by the state in order to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.

We have discussed the various steps involved in obtaining a marriage license, from filling out the application form to submitting required documents and paying the necessary fees. We have also highlighted some key points, such as the minimum age requirement, waiting period, and validity of the license.

Additionally, we have emphasized the importance of understanding New Jersey’s marriage laws and regulations before applying for a license. This includes being aware of any restrictions or prohibited marriages to avoid delays or complications.

Moreover, we have discussed the option of having a proxy marriage or applying for a waiver of waiting period under certain circumstances. It is crucial to thoroughly communicate with your local County Clerk’s Office to ensure that all requirements are met and any special circumstances are properly addressed.

Overall, obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey is an integral step towards starting a new chapter of life with your partner. By following the steps and guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure a smooth process and avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.

Finally, it is important to note that while this

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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.