Jackson County
Marriage License Requirements
Planning a wedding or vow renewal ceremony in Arkansas? Finding the right wedding officiant is a crucial part of creating a memorable and special experience for you and your partner. Whether you’re tying the knot for the first time or renewing your vows, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Arkansas wedding officiants, marriage license requirements, and more. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
Your wedding day is one of the most significant milestones in your life. To make it truly special, finding the perfect wedding officiant is essential. Arkansas offers a diverse selection of officiants, including priests, ministers, rabbis, and licensed counselors, to help you create a ceremony that reflects your unique love story.
Marriage Application Requirement Arkansas
To apply for a marriage license in Arkansas, both parties must be 18 years or older and present a valid government-issued identification with their correct name and date of birth. If either party has changed their name through a divorce and their driver’s license does not reflect this change, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required. The application fee for a marriage license is $60.00.
Marriage ID Requirement Arkansas
When applying for a marriage license in Arkansas, 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 Arkansas
Arkansas does not have a waiting period for marriage licenses if both applicants are 18 years or older. However, if one party is 17 years old (male) or 16-17 years old (female) and obtaining a marriage license with parental consent, there is a mandatory waiting period of 5 business days.
Marriage Residency Requirement Arkansas
You do not need to be a resident of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license in the state. The license can be used anywhere within Arkansas.
Previous Marriages: Search Marriage | Divorce Records
If either party has been previously married, they will need to provide their divorce decree or information regarding the date, county, and state of death of their previous spouse. If there has been a name change due to a previous divorce, a certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary.
Marriage License Fees Arkansas
The fee for a marriage license in Arkansas is $60.00, and payment is accepted in cash. For other payment methods, it’s advisable to call ahead for guidance.
Covenant Marriages Arkansas
Arkansas offers the option of Covenant Marriages, where a man and a woman declare their intent to enter into a Covenant Marriage. This requires authorized counseling emphasizing the nature, purposes, and responsibilities of marriage. The counselor can be a priest, minister, rabbi, licensed counselor, psychologist, or other licensed professionals.
Proxy Marriages Arkansas
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Arkansas. Both parties must be present to apply for and receive a marriage license.
Cousin Marriages Arkansas
Arkansas does not permit cousin marriages.
Common Law Marriages Arkansas
Common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
Marriage Blood Test Arkansas
Arkansas does not require a blood or medical test to obtain a marriage license.
Name Change Arkansas
Obtaining a marriage license with your new name does not automatically change your last name. If you wish to change your name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements Arkansas
In Arkansas, males must be at least 17 years old, and females must be 16-17 years old. Parental consent is required for those under the age of 18, and there is a mandatory 5-day waiting period. “Parental Consent” can be provided by specific individuals under various circumstances.
Marriage Officiants Arkansas
In Arkansas, Justices of the Peace and officially recorded ministers can solemnize marriages. Both parties are responsible for returning the marriage license to the County Clerk’s office within sixty (60) days from the date of issuance.
Marriage Witnesses Arkansas
No witnesses are required for marriages in Arkansas.
Expiration Date of Marriage License Arkansas
The marriage license is valid for sixty (60) days and can be used anywhere in the state of Arkansas. It must be returned to the County Clerk’s office where it was first applied.
How to Obtain a Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
To obtain a copy of the marriage license certificate, you can contact the Division of Vital Records in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Conclusion
Your wedding day should be a cherished memory filled with love and joy. Finding the right wedding officiant and understanding the marriage license requirements in Arkansas is crucial for a seamless and meaningful ceremony. With a wide range of options and straightforward regulations, Arkansas makes it easy for couples to celebrate their love and commitment in the way that’s perfect for them.
FAQs
- Can I have a proxy marriage in Arkansas? No, proxy marriages are not allowed in Arkansas. Both parties must be present to obtain a marriage license.
- Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Arkansas? There is no waiting period for marriage licenses if both applicants are 18 years or older. However, a mandatory 5-day waiting period applies if one party is 17 years old (male) or 16-17 years old (female) with parental consent.
- What are the acceptable forms of identification for a marriage license in Arkansas? Acceptable forms of identification include state-issued I.D., valid driver’s license, Indian card, passport or visa (not expired), military I.D., and original birth certificate.
- Can I change my name through a marriage license in Arkansas? No, obtaining a marriage license with your new name does not automatically change your last name. To change your name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
- Are common law marriages recognized in Arkansas? No, common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
