Bradley County
Marriage License Requirements
When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right officiant. Your wedding officiant sets the tone for your ceremony, making it a memorable and meaningful event. If you’re in Arkansas and looking for the perfect officiant to solemnize your marriage or vow renewal, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential details you need to know about Arkansas wedding officiants, marriage license requirements, waiting periods, and more.
Marriage Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Arkansas, both parties must be 18 years or older and present valid government-issued identification showing their correct name and date of birth. If there has been a name change due to divorce, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required. The application fee is $60.00, and the marriage license must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 60 days from the date of issuance, whether used or unused.
Marriage ID Requirements
For a marriage license, both parties must have one of the following forms of identification:
- State-issued I.D.
- Valid Driver’s License
- Indian Card
- Passport or Visa (not expired)
- Military I.D.
- Original Birth Certificate
Marriage Waiting Period Requirement
In Arkansas, there is no waiting period for marriage licenses. They can be issued immediately for applicants who are both 18 or older. However, if one party is male and 17 or female and 16-17 with parental consent, a waiting period of 5 business days applies.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You don’t need to be a resident of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license, and the license can be used anywhere within the state.
Previous Marriages and Records
If you were previously married, you need to show your divorce decree or provide information about the date, county, and state of death of the previous spouse. If your name has changed, a certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary.
Marriage License Fees
The fee for an Arkansas marriage license is $60.00, payable in cash. Additional payment methods may be available; it’s advisable to inquire ahead of time.
Covenant Marriages
Covenant marriages are an option in Arkansas. This involves a declaration of intent to contract a covenant marriage, emphasizing the nature and responsibilities of marriage. Authorized counseling is required, and both parties must sign an affidavit confirming it.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Arkansas.
Cousin Marriages
Cousin marriages are not permitted in Arkansas.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
Marriage Blood Test
No blood or medical tests are required to get married in Arkansas.
Name Change
Obtaining a marriage license with your new name does not automatically change your name. For a name change, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements
In Arkansas, males must be 17 years old, and females must be 16-17 years old with parental consent. Parental consent also requires a mandatory 5-day waiting period.
Marriage Officiants
Justices of the Peace and ministers can solemnize marriages in Arkansas. Ministers must have their credentials recorded in an Arkansas county, and they’re responsible for completing the marriage license information.
Marriage Witnesses
No witnesses are required for marriages in Arkansas.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
An Arkansas marriage license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere in the state. It must be returned to the County Clerk’s office where it was applied for.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
For copies of the marriage license certificate, you can contact the Division of Vital Records in Little Rock.
In conclusion, Arkansas offers a range of options and flexibility when it comes to marriage requirements and officiants. Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding or a unique ceremony, knowing the regulations and guidelines ensures a smooth process. Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and partnership, and choosing the right officiant is a significant step in making it a truly memorable event.
FAQs
- Do I have to be an Arkansas resident to get married in the state? No, you do not need to be an Arkansas resident to obtain a marriage license or get married in the state.
- What is the waiting period for obtaining a marriage license? There is no waiting period for marriage licenses if both parties are 18 or older. Otherwise, a waiting period of 5 business days applies with parental consent.
- Can I have a proxy marriage in Arkansas? No, Arkansas does not allow proxy marriages.
- Are cousin marriages allowed in Arkansas? No, cousin marriages are not permitted in Arkansas.
- Is common law marriage recognized in Arkansas? No, common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
