Calhoun County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning a wedding or vow renewal ceremony in Fordyce, Arkansas, you’re in luck! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Arkansas wedding officiants, marriage license requirements, and more. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a destination wedding, we’ve got you covered.
Introduction
Fordyce, Arkansas, with its charming appeal, is a perfect place for your wedding or vow renewal ceremony. To ensure a smooth and legal process, it’s essential to understand the requirements and steps involved in getting married in Arkansas.
Marriage License Requirements in Arkansas
To apply for a marriage license in Arkansas, both parties must be 18 years of age or older and present a valid government-issued identification that displays their correct name and date of birth. If either party has changed their name due to divorce, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required. The application fee for a marriage license is $60.00.
Marriage ID Requirements
Accepted forms of identification for obtaining a marriage license include state-issued IDs, valid driver’s licenses, Indian cards, passports, visas (not expired), military IDs, and original birth certificates.
Marriage Waiting Periods
Arkansas does not have a waiting period for issuing marriage licenses. If both applicants are 18 or older, a marriage license can be obtained immediately. However, if one party is a male aged 17 or a female aged 16 or 17 with parental consent, there is a mandatory waiting period of 5 business days.
Marriage Residency Requirements
Couples do not need to be residents of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license in the state. The license can be used anywhere within Arkansas.
Previous Marriages and Name Changes
If you’ve been previously married, you’ll need to provide your divorce decree or information about the date, county, and state of death of your previous spouse. In case of a name change, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required.
Marriage License Fees
The fee for an Arkansas marriage license is $60.00, payable in cash. For other payment methods, it’s recommended to inquire in advance.
Covenant Marriages in Arkansas
Arkansas offers the option of a Covenant Marriage, where couples can declare their intent to choose this type of marriage. This requires authorized counseling, a signed declaration of intent, and other stipulations.
Proxy, Cousin, and Common Law Marriages
Proxy, cousin, and common law marriages are not allowed in Arkansas.
Marriage Blood Tests
No blood or medical tests are required to get married in Arkansas.
Changing Your Name After Marriage
Getting a marriage license with your new name does not automatically change your name. If you want to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements and Parental Consent
Males aged 17 and females aged 16-17 require parental consent for marriage. There is a mandatory 5-day waiting period for such cases. Parental consent is defined based on various circumstances.
Marriage Officiants in Arkansas
Justices of the Peace and qualified ministers can solemnize marriages in Arkansas. Ministers must have their credentials recorded in an Arkansas county. Officiants are responsible for completing the marriage certificate information.
Marriage Witnesses
Witnesses are not required for marriages in Arkansas.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
A marriage license in Arkansas is valid for sixty (60) days. It can be used anywhere in the state and must be returned to the County Clerk’s office where it was obtained.
Contact Information for Vital Records
For information on obtaining copies of your marriage certificate, you can contact the Division of Vital Records in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the following address:
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’re now equipped with the knowledge you need to navigate the process of getting married in Fordyce, Arkansas. Remember to follow the guidelines outlined in this article to ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding experience. Best wishes on your journey to marital bliss!
FAQs
- Can non-residents of Arkansas get married in the state? Yes, couples do not need to be residents of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license in the state.
- Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Arkansas? There is no waiting period if both applicants are 18 or older. However, a 5-day waiting period applies if one party is a male aged 17 or a female aged 16-17 with parental consent.
- What is a Covenant Marriage in Arkansas? A Covenant Marriage is an option for couples that requires authorized counseling and a signed declaration of intent. It involves more stringent requirements than a standard marriage.
- Are witnesses required for marriages in Arkansas? No, witnesses are not required for marriages in Arkansas.
- How long is an Arkansas marriage license valid? An Arkansas marriage license is valid for sixty (60) days and can be used anywhere in the state.
