Unlocking Forever: The Ultimate Guide to Obtaining a Marriage License in Utah

Are you planning to tie the knot in the beautiful and historically rich state of Utah? Congratulations! Before you say your ‘I do’s, there is an important piece of paperwork that you need to secure – a marriage license. Fret not, as this article will guide you on everything you need to know on how to get a marriage license in Utah. From the requirements to the process, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let’s get you one step closer to happily ever after in the Beehive State.

Understanding Marriage License Requirements in Utah

In order to legally get married in the state of Utah, you will need to obtain a marriage license. This is an important document that confirms your marriage and serves as legal proof of your union. However, before you can obtain a marriage license in Utah, there are certain requirements that must be met.

First and foremost, both parties must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Utah. If either party is under the age of 18, parental consent must be obtained. In addition, there are also restrictions on certain family relationships. Utah law prohibits marriages between first cousins or closer blood relatives. Applicants must also not have any previous marriages that have not been legally dissolved.

A valid government-issued photo ID is required for both parties when applying for a marriage license in Utah. This can include a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Both parties will also need to provide their Social Security numbers.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License in Utah

Marriage licenses in the state of Utah are issued by county clerks. You and your future spouse can apply for a marriage license at any county clerk’s office in the state as long as one of you is a resident of Utah. If neither party is a resident of the state, the license must be obtained from the county clerk’s office where you will be conducting your marriage ceremony.

It’s important to note that not all county clerk offices have the same hours of operation or accept the same forms of payment for the application fee. Before heading to your local county clerk’s office, make sure to check their website or give them a call for their specific hours and accepted methods of payment.

If you are unable to go to the county clerk’s office together to apply for the license, you can fill out an online application form and have it notarized. The application fee must then be submitted to the county clerk’s office within 30 days. The marriage license will not be issued until both parties have appeared in person at the county clerk’s office.

What You Need to Bring When Applying for a Marriage License in Utah

When applying for a marriage license in Utah, make sure to bring all necessary documents and information to avoid any delays or complications in the process. As stated earlier, both parties will need a valid government-issued photo ID and their Social Security numbers.

If either party has been previously married, they will also need to bring their divorce decree or death certificate of their previous spouse as proof of the dissolution of their previous marriage. It’s important to note that these documents must be official and certified copies.

You will also need to provide information such as your full name, date of birth, place of birth, current address, and parents’ names including maiden names. This information is essential when filling out the application form for your marriage license in Utah.

Waiting Period and Expiration of Marriage License

Once you have applied for a marriage license in Utah, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before it can be issued. This means that you will not receive your license until three days after you have applied. However, if necessary, the waiting period can be waived by a judge or court commissioner.

It’s important to note that once issued, your marriage license is only valid for 30 days from the date it was issued. If you do not get married within this time frame, you will need to reapply for a new license.

Cost of Obtaining a Marriage License in Utah

The cost involved in obtaining a marriage license in Utah can vary depending on the county where you are applying. In most counties, the application fee ranges from $50 to $60. However, in certain counties, such as Salt Lake County, the fee can be as high as $70. It’s important to check with your specific county clerk’s office for the exact cost and accepted forms of payment.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Utah is a necessary step in the process of getting married in the state. By understanding the requirements, where to apply, what documents to bring, and the waiting period and expiration of the license, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Remember to plan ahead and gather all necessary information and documents before applying for your marriage license. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

What is a Marriage License and Why Do You Need One in Utah?

A marriage license is a legal document that grants permission to a couple to get married in the state of Utah. It serves as proof that the individuals meet all the requirements to enter into a legal marriage. Without a valid marriage license, a marriage is not considered legally binding.

In order to get married in Utah, you must obtain a marriage license beforehand. This is an essential step in the process of getting married, as it ensures that both parties are legally eligible to marry and that the union will be recognized by the state.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in Utah

Before applying for a marriage license in Utah, there are certain requirements that you must meet. These include:

– Both parties must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if they are between 16-17 years old
– Both parties must be unrelated by blood or adoption
– Both parties must have valid identification (e.g. driver’s license, passport)
– If either party has been previously married, they must provide evidence of divorce or death of their previous spouse

It is important to note that same-sex couples can also obtain a marriage license in Utah. The legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2013 made it possible for LGBTQ+ couples to marry and have their unions officially recognized by the state.

How to Apply for a Marriage License in Utah

Applying for a marriage license in Utah is a relatively simple process. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Visit your county clerk’s office: The first step is to visit the county clerk’s office where you plan to get married. This can be any county within the state of Utah.
2. Bring required documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents with you, including valid identification and any relevant divorce or death certificates.
3. Fill out the application: You and your partner will need to fill out a marriage license application together.
4. Pay the fee: There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in Utah. This fee may vary depending on the county you are applying in.
5. Wait for the license to be issued: Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, your marriage license will be issued on the spot.

Validity of a Marriage License in Utah

A marriage license in Utah is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means that you must get married within 30 days of obtaining your license or else it will expire, and you will need to reapply.

In addition, a Utah marriage license is only valid for marriages that take place within the state. If you plan to get married outside of Utah, you will need to obtain a marriage license from that state.

Where to Use Your Marriage License

Once you have obtained your marriage license in Utah, you can use it to get married anywhere within the state. This includes religious institutions, courthouses, and other venues where weddings can legally take place.

It is important to remember that simply having a marriage license does not guarantee a wedding ceremony or officiation. You will still need to arrange for someone to perform the ceremony and sign the license as an official witness.

Getting a marriage license in Utah is an essential step in legally getting married in the state. By following these steps and meeting all the requirements, you can ensure that your union will be recognized by both state and federal authorities. Congratulations on taking this big step towards starting your life together as a married couple!

Q: What are the requirements to apply for a marriage license in Utah?
A: Both parties must be at least 18 years old, bring valid government-issued IDs, and provide proof of legal status in the United States if not a citizen.

Q: How can I obtain the application for a marriage license in Utah?
A: You can fill out the application online and submit it in person at any county clerk’s office or download it from their official website and bring it with you when you apply.

Q: Do I need to have witnesses to apply for a marriage license in Utah?
A: No, Utah does not require witnesses to be present during the application process.

Q: Is there a waiting period before I can receive my marriage license in Utah?
A: Yes, there is typically a three-day waiting period after you submit your application. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties attend premarital counseling.

Q: How long is a marriage license valid in Utah?
A: A marriage license is valid for up to 30 days after it is issued. If it is not used within this time frame, you must reapply and pay the fee again.

Q: Can I apply for a marriage license in any county in Utah?
A: Yes, you can apply at any county clerk’s office in the state of Utah. However, your license will only be valid within that specific county.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Utah is a straightforward process that requires some preparation and understanding of the state’s laws and requirements. The first step is to ensure that both parties meet the eligibility criteria, including age and legal status. From there, couples must gather the necessary documents and visit the county clerk’s office to complete the application and pay the required fees.

The waiting period for marriage licenses can vary depending on each county’s policies, so couples should plan accordingly. It is also crucial to note the expiration date of the marriage license, which is typically 30 days after issuance.

Additionally, couples planning to have a civil or religious ceremony must ensure that their officiant is authorized to perform weddings in Utah. For those opting for a self-uniting marriage through common law or Quaker traditions, it is essential to thoroughly understand Utah’s laws on this type of union.

While getting a marriage license may seem like a simple task, it marks the beginning of an important legal commitment. Taking time to understand and fulfill all requirements ensures that couples have a smooth and successful process towards their future together.

Overall, obtaining a marriage license in Utah requires attention to detail and adherence to state laws. By following the steps outlined in this guide, couples can confidently embark on their journey towards lawful mat

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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.