Unlocking the Secret: How to Obtain a Marriage License in CT

Congratulations, you’ve found the one and you’re ready to take the plunge into married life. But before you can say “I do,” there’s one important step that you need to take – obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Connecticut, obtaining a marriage license is a necessary legal requirement for couples looking to tie the knot. While it may seem like daunting paperwork, fear not. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of getting a marriage license in CT, so that you can focus on planning your dream wedding without any added stress.

Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the process of getting married. Each state has its specific laws and requirements for obtaining a marriage license, and Connecticut is no exception. If you are planning on getting married in Connecticut, it is essential to understand the process of obtaining a marriage license. This article will guide you through the steps of how to get a marriage license in CT, including the requirements, application process, and other important details.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in CT

Before applying for a marriage license in Connecticut, there are certain requirements that both parties must meet. These requirements include:

– Both parties must be at least 18 years old or have written consent from their parents or legal guardians.
– Neither party can be currently married or involved in any other legal union.
– Both parties must appear together at the town clerk’s office to apply for the marriage license.
– Each person needs to present valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
– Both parties must provide their social security numbers. If one or both parties do not have a social security number, they must state that they do not have one.

It is also crucial to note that same-sex marriages are allowed and recognized in Connecticut.

Application Process for Obtaining a Marriage License in CT

Once you have met all the necessary requirements, you can begin the application process for your marriage license. Here are the steps involved:

1. Visit your local town clerk’s office: In Connecticut, marriage licenses are issued by each town clerk’s office. Therefore, you will need to visit the town where either you or your partner resides to apply for your marriage license.

2. Fill out the application form: The application form will ask for basic information such as your full names, addresses, social security numbers, parents’ names and birthplaces, and the officiant’s information.

3. Pay the application fee: The fee for obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut varies from town to town. The average cost is between $30-$50, and most offices accept cash, check, or credit/debit card payments.

4. Provide any necessary documents: Along with the completed application form and fee, you will need to present valid identification and any other required documents such as a divorce decree or death certificate of a previous spouse if applicable.

5. Wait for your marriage license to be processed: After submitting all the necessary documents and paying the required fee, you will need to wait for your marriage license to be processed. This can take up to three business days.

Important Details to Keep in Mind

– Marriage licenses in Connecticut are valid for 65 days from the date of issue.
– The marriage license must be used within the town where it was issued.
– In some towns, there may be a mandatory waiting period before the license can be used. Make sure to inquire about this information at the town clerk’s office.
– Once you receive your marriage license, make sure all the information is correct before leaving the town clerk’s office.
– If you are planning on having a friend or family member perform your wedding ceremony, they must become ordained by a religious organization or become a justice of peace in Connecticut.
– If you are not a resident of Connecticut but are getting married in the state, you must obtain a marriage license from any town within Connecticut.

Obtaining a marriage license in CT may seem like an overwhelming process, but as long as you meet all the requirements and follow the steps outlined above, it should be a smooth and straightforward process. Remember that it is always best to plan ahead and allow enough time for processing your marriage license before your wedding day. Congratulations on taking this important step towards your happily ever after!

What is a Marriage License in Connecticut?

A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married in the state of Connecticut. It is an essential requirement for anyone who wishes to have a legally recognized marriage ceremony. Obtaining a marriage license means that you and your partner meet the state’s requirements for marriage and are eligible to wed.

In Connecticut, the process of obtaining a marriage license is relatively straightforward, but there are certain rules and regulations that you must follow. The laws surrounding marriage licenses can be complex, so it’s essential to understand the requirements before you apply.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in Connecticut?

To apply for a marriage license in Connecticut, both individuals must be at least 18 years of age or older. If either party is under 18, they must have parental consent and present a signed parental consent form. Both individuals must appear together at the Town Clerk’s office to apply for the license.

Connecticut law also prohibits individuals from marrying their parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, aunt or uncle (whether by half or whole-blood), niece or nephew (whether by half or whole-blood), first cousin (whether by half or whole-blood) or stepchildren.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Marriage License in Connecticut?

To obtain a marriage license in Connecticut, you will need to provide proof of identification and age with government-issued photo ID such as:

– Driver’s License
– State ID card
– US passport
– Military ID card

You will also need to provide your social security number and birth date on the application form. In some cases, additional documents may be required if there has been a name change due to divorce or legal name change.

If either individual was married previously, they may be required to present their divorce decree(s) or death certificate(s) before obtaining a marriage license.

Where Can You Obtain a Marriage License in Connecticut?

Marriage licenses in Connecticut are issued by the Town Clerk’s office in the town where the ceremony will take place. If both parties are residents of Connecticut, you can apply for a marriage license in either of your hometowns.

If one or both parties are non-residents of Connecticut, you must obtain your marriage license in the town where the ceremony will take place.

How Do You Apply for a Marriage License in Connecticut?

To apply for a marriage license, both individuals must appear together at the Town Clerk’s office with all required documents mentioned above. The application must be signed by both applicants under oath, and an oath fee is required.

The cost of obtaining a marriage license varies from town to town but usually ranges between $30-$50. Cash is typically accepted, but it’s best to check with your Town Clerk beforehand to ensure they accept other forms of payment.

After completing the application and paying the fee, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before you can pick up your marriage license. If either or both individuals are unable to appear at the clerk’s office during regular business hours, they may apply for a waiver of this waiting period with good cause shown.

What Happens After You Obtain Your Marriage License?

Once you receive your marriage license, it is valid for 65 days from the date it was issued. This means that your wedding ceremony must take place within that time frame for your marriage to be legally recognized.

On the day of your wedding ceremony, you will need two witnesses over 18 years old to sign your marriage certificate as witnesses. Once signed and certified by an officiant (such as a Justice of Peace), your certificate will be mailed back to the Town Clerk’s office within five days after the ceremony. This completes the legal steps of obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut.

Obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut is an important step if you want to have a legally recognized marriage. With proper documentation and following the state’s guidelines, the process can be relatively simple. However, it’s crucial to research and understand the requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. So if you are planning to tie the knot in Connecticut, make sure to follow all regulations and enjoy your special day!

1. What is a marriage license and why do I need one in CT?
A marriage license is a legal document that gives you permission to get married in the state of Connecticut. It is required by law for couples to obtain a marriage license before they can legally marry.

2. How do I obtain a marriage license in CT?
To get a marriage license in CT, both individuals must go to the town clerk’s office together and fill out a marriage license application. You will need to bring identification and pay a fee. The clerk will issue the license immediately if all requirements are met.

3. Is there a waiting period after obtaining the marriage license before we can get married?
Yes, there is a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours after your marriage license is issued before you can get married in CT. This waiting period can only be waived by a judge for extenuating circumstances.

4. Are there any age restrictions for getting married in CT?
Yes, both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If one or both parties are under 18, they must obtain written consent from their parents or legal guardians and have the consent form notarized.

5. How long is a CT marriage license valid for?
A marriage license in CT is valid for 65 days from the date it was issued. If you do not get married within this time frame, you will need to reapply for another marriage license.

6. Can we use our CT marriage license to get married in another state?
No, you cannot use your CT marriage license to get married in another state. Each state has its own laws and requirements for obtaining a valid marriage license, so you will need to check with the specific state where you plan on getting married.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut requires following a specific process and meeting certain requirements. The first step is to research the laws and regulations in the town or city where you plan to get married, as each location may have slightly different requirements. Next, gather all necessary documents such as photo IDs, birth certificates, and divorce or death certificates if applicable. Then, fill out the application and pay the required fees. It is important to note that some towns may require a premarital counseling certificate and a waiting period before issuing the license.

It is also crucial to be aware of any specific restrictions or rules in your chosen location, such as blood tests or age requirements for minors. Additionally, it is recommended to apply for the marriage license well in advance of your planned wedding date to avoid any last-minute complications.

Moreover, it is vital to communicate effectively with your partner throughout this process and ensure that all necessary steps are completed together. This not only strengthens your partnership but also ensures a smoother application process.

Overall, obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut involves careful planning and fulfilling all necessary requirements. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that your application process goes smoothly and you are legally able to marry your partner on your desired date. Remember to approach this process with patience

Author Profile

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.