El Paso County
Marriage License Requirements

Marriage is a beautiful and sacred union that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey for couples. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Colorado Springs, you’ll need to navigate the process of obtaining a marriage license. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps and requirements, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for your special day.

Introduction

Embarking on a journey of love and commitment, couples often choose Colorado Springs as the backdrop for their wedding day. The city offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere that make for a perfect wedding destination. Before you exchange your vows, it’s important to understand the process of obtaining a marriage license.

Citizens Service Center

The Citizens Service Center is a central location where you can apply for a marriage license. Conveniently situated at 1675 W. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, CO 80907, the center operates from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (excluding Court Approved Holidays).

Southeast Powers

Another option for applying for a marriage license is the Southeast Powers office, located at 5650 Industrial Place, Powers Blvd and Airport Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80907. The office hours are also from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except Court Approved Holidays).

North Union Town Center

For those in the North Union area, the North Union Town Center office is available at 8830 N. Union Blvd, Research Pkwy and Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. Similar to the other locations, the office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except Court Approved Holidays).

Colorado Wedding Officiants

Choosing the right wedding officiant is a crucial decision for your big day. Colorado Springs offers a diverse range of officiants to suit your preferences. By submitting a single form, you can connect with top-rated marriage officiants in your locality and select the one that resonates with you.

Application Process

When applying for a marriage license, both applicants must appear in person and sign the application. In cases where one party is unable to be present due to illness, being out-of-state, or incarcerated, the applying party should bring the absentee application along with the absent party’s notarized identification.

Required Documentation

To proceed with your marriage license application, you’ll need to provide documentation that proves your identity and eligibility. Acceptable forms of identification include a United States Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card.

Identification and Social Security

In cases where an applicant lacks a social security number, an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office must be signed during the application process. This ensures that all necessary information is accounted for.

Place of Birth and Parental Information

The application form should include the place of birth (city and state) of both parties. Additionally, it’s important to list the names and current addresses of the parents of the applicants.

Marriage ID Requirements in Colorado

Colorado has specific ID requirements to ensure the validity of your marriage. Acceptable forms of identification include:

• Birth Certificate
• Valid Driver’s License (including temporary issued with voided previous license)
• Passport (both expired and valid)
• Valid state identification card (including temporary issued with voided previous ID)
• Military identification
• Alien Registration Card (Green card)
• Any U.S. government-issued identification containing a photo, date of birth, issue date, and expiration date

Marriage Waiting Period

Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Colorado. Once you’ve obtained your marriage license, you’re free to proceed with your wedding ceremony.

Marriage Residency Requirement

Colorado is a welcoming state for couples seeking to get married. There is no residency requirement, meaning applicants do not need to be Colorado residents to obtain a marriage license.

Previous Marriages

If an applicant has recently gone through a divorce within 30 days of applying for a marriage license, the final decree must be provided. This document should be signed by the judge or court referee. For divorces finalized more than 30 days prior, details such as the date of divorce, place of divorce, and court involved must be disclosed.

Marriage License Fees

Obtaining a marriage license involves a fee of $30. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing your application.

Proxy Marriages

In cases where one party is unable to appear due to circumstances such as illness, being out of the state of Colorado, or incarceration, an absentee application is an option.

Cousin Marriages

Colorado law permits first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado, offering couples an alternative to traditional ceremonies.

Marriage Blood Test

Unlike some states, Colorado does not require couples to undergo blood tests before obtaining a marriage license.

Name Change

While a marriage license can reflect your new name, it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, there are resources available, including online marriage name change kits.

Marriage Age Requirements

The legal age for marriage without parental consent is 18 years old. For applicants aged 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required, signed by both parents or the legal guardian.

Marriage Officiants

Couples have the unique opportunity to solemnize their own marriage in Colorado. Other authorized marriage officiants include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy. It’s important to note that while couples can officiate their own marriage, friends or relatives cannot sign as officiants on the marriage certificate.

Marriage Witnesses

Unlike some states, witnesses are not required in Colorado. Some officiants or officials may request witnesses, but they are not a mandatory component of the marriage ceremony.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Your marriage license remains valid for 35 days from the date of issuance. After your wedding ceremony, the completed marriage certificate and attached license must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days.

Recording Your Marriage Certificate

To ensure the legal documentation of your marriage, the completed marriage certificate must be returned to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Located at 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, Colorado 80346-1530, the office plays a crucial role in maintaining accurate records.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license is a vital step on your journey to matrimony. Colorado Springs provides a seamless process, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love and commitment. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your new chapter as a married couple.

FAQs

Q1: How much is the marriage license fee in Colorado Springs? A: The marriage license fee in Colorado Springs is $30.00.

Q2: Can I apply for a marriage license online? A: No, both applicants must appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage application.

Q3: Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? A: No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the State of Colorado.

Q4: Can I solemnize my own marriage in Colorado? A: Yes, couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado. Other authorized officiants include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy.

Q5: Are witnesses required for the marriage ceremony in Colorado? A: No, witnesses are not required for the marriage ceremony in Colorado.