Alamosa County
Marriage License Requirements
Whether you’re planning your dream wedding or looking to renew your vows, the Alamosa County Office Building in Alamosa, CO offers a streamlined and accessible process for obtaining your marriage license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps and requirements to ensure your marriage licensing experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Marriage License Application Process
Applying in Person
To initiate the process, both applicants must appear in person at the Alamosa County Office Building. There, they will complete and sign the marriage application.
Absentee Application
If one party is unable to appear due to illness, being out-of-state, or incarcerated, the applying party can bring an absentee application form, along with the absent party’s identification. The absentee application form must be notarized beforehand.
Required Identification
Applicants must provide valid identification for proof of age, such as a United States driver’s license, passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card.
Social Security Number
If either party lacks a social security number, they must complete an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office during the application.
Providing Birthplace and Parents’ Information
The application form requires applicants to list their place of birth (city and state) as well as their parents’ names and current addresses.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
Birth Certificate
A birth certificate is a valid form of identification.
Valid Driver’s License
Both valid and temporarily issued driver’s licenses are accepted.
Passport
Both expired and valid passports are considered acceptable identification.
State Identification Card
Similar to driver’s licenses, state identification cards are accepted.
Military Identification
Active and retired military personnel can use their military IDs.
Alien Registration Card
Those with a green card can present their alien registration card.
Government Issued Identification
Any U.S. government-issued ID containing relevant information is acceptable.
No Waiting Period for Marriage
Colorado law does not mandate a waiting period before getting married.
Residency Requirements
Applicants do not need to be residents of Colorado to obtain a marriage license.
Previous Marriages and Divorce
If a party has finalized a divorce within the past 30 days, the final decree must be provided. If the divorce occurred more than 30 days prior, applicants must provide divorce details.
Marriage License Fees
A marriage license fee of $30 applies in Colorado.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are permitted if one party cannot appear in person.
Cousin Marriages
Colorado allows first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.
Marriage Blood Test
No blood tests are required in Colorado.
Name Change
Obtaining a marriage license with a new name does not automatically change the name. An online marriage name change kit is available for those wishing to change their last name.
Marriage Age Requirements
The legal age for marriage without parental consent is 18 years old. Ages 16 and 17 require notarized parental consent.
Marriage Officiants
Couples can solemnize their own marriage. Others authorized to officiate include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy.
Marriage Witnesses
Witnesses are not mandatory, but some officials may request them.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license is valid for 35 days. The completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days.
Completing the Marriage Certificate
Once completed, the marriage certificate must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for recording.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage license in Alamosa County, Colorado, is now easier than ever. With clear guidelines, minimal waiting periods, and a variety of acceptable identification forms, you can focus on planning the perfect wedding ceremony and celebrating your love. Whether you’re a Colorado resident or not, the Alamosa County Office Building provides a convenient and efficient experience to help you get started on your journey to marital bliss.
FAQs
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? No, there is no waiting period for marriage in the State of Colorado.
- Do both parties need to be Colorado residents to obtain a marriage license? No, residency in Colorado is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
- What is the fee for a marriage license in Colorado? The fee for a marriage license in Colorado is $30.
- Can one party apply for a marriage license on behalf of an absent party? Yes, if one party is unable to appear, an absentee application can be submitted with notarized documentation.
- Are witnesses required during the marriage ceremony in Colorado? Witnesses are not required, but some officials may request their presence during the ceremony.
