Douglas County
Marriage License Requirements

If you’re planning to tie the knot in Colorado, understanding the ins and outs of the marriage license process is essential. From the necessary documents to the fees involved, we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to obtain a marriage license in Colorado, along with other essential details to make your wedding day special. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

Getting married is a momentous occasion, and the process starts with obtaining a marriage license. In Colorado, the marriage license fee is $30.00. But there’s more to it than just the fee; you need to follow certain steps and provide specific documentation. Let’s break it down.

Applying for a Marriage License

Appearing in Person

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. This is a crucial step to ensure the legitimacy of the marriage and to complete the necessary paperwork.

Absentee Application

If one party cannot be present due to valid reasons such as illness, being out of the state, or incarceration, the absent party can apply using an absentee application. This form must be notarized in advance.

Required Cash Fee

A marriage license comes with a fee of $30.00, payable in cash. This fee covers the processing and issuance of the license.

Identification Requirements

To prove your age and identity, you’ll need to present a valid identification document. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license issued in the United States, a passport, military ID, or a state-issued ID card.

Important Application Details

In addition to personal identification, the application form requires the place of birth (city and state) of both parties, as well as the names and current addresses of their parents.

Social Security Number

If either party does not have a social security number, they must sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office when applying for the license.

Acceptable Identification Documents

A range of identification documents is accepted, including birth certificates, valid driver’s licenses, passports (both expired and valid), state identification cards, military identification, alien registration cards (Green cards), and any U.S. government-issued identification containing essential details.

No Waiting Period

Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a waiting period for getting married. Once you obtain your marriage license, you’re good to go!

Residency Requirements

Colorado is welcoming to couples from all over. You don’t need to be a resident of the state to apply for a marriage license here.

Previous Marriages

If either party has been divorced within the last 30 days, the final decree must be produced. If it’s been more than 30 days since the divorce was finalized, you’ll need to provide information about the date and place of the divorce.

Marriage License Fees

The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.00. This fee is essential for the processing and issuance of the license.

Proxy Marriages

In special cases where one party cannot be present, such as due to illness or being out of state, an absentee application can be obtained to facilitate a proxy marriage.

Cousin Marriages

Colorado allows first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.

Marriage Blood Test

Colorado does not require blood tests as part of the marriage license process.

Name Change

While your marriage license can have your new name, it’s important to note that it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

The legal age to marry without parental consent in Colorado is 18 years. If you’re 16 or 17 years old, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required. Applicants 15 years old or younger need a court order for approval.

Marriage Officiants

In Colorado, couples can solemnize their own marriage, or they can have a ceremony officiated by judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy.

Marriage Witnesses

Witnesses are not required in Colorado, though some officials may request them.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

A marriage license in Colorado is valid for 35 days. The completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after the solemnization.

Recording the Marriage Certificate

After your wedding, the completed marriage certificate needs to be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days. Late fees apply after this period.

Contact Information

For any queries or assistance, you can reach out to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at:

• Address: 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, Colorado 80346-1530
• Phone: 303.692.2234

Conclusion

Now that you have a clear understanding of the marriage license process in Colorado, you can approach your special day with confidence. Remember, each step is designed to ensure the legality and authenticity of your union. So, gather the necessary documents, make your cash payment, and get ready to celebrate your love with your chosen officiant and witnesses by your side.

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for a marriage license online?

A: Currently, the process for obtaining a marriage license in Colorado requires both parties to appear in person. Online applications are not accepted.

Q2: Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado?

A: Unlike some states, there is no waiting period in Colorado. Once you have your marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony.

Q3: What documents do I need if I’ve been divorced within 30 days?

A: If you’ve been divorced within the last 30 days, you’ll need to provide the final decree of divorce. This document should be signed by the judge or court referee.

Q4: Can a friend or relative officiate my wedding ceremony?

A: While couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado, having a friend or relative officiate is not sufficient for the marriage certificate. Only judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy can officially officiate your wedding for legal purposes.

Q5: What should I do if I want to change my last name after getting married?

A: If you want to change your last name after getting married, simply having your new name on the marriage license is not enough. You’ll need to follow the legal process for changing your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit to assist you with this process.