Lee County
Marriage License Requirements
Introduction
Getting married is an important milestone in many people’s lives, and one of the essential aspects of tying the knot is obtaining a marriage license. This document legally permits a couple to marry and is a crucial requirement for a wedding ceremony. Each state in the United States has its own rules and regulations for obtaining a marriage license, and in this article, we’ll focus on the process of getting a marriage license in Arkansas, including the required documents, fees, and other relevant information.
Marriage Application Requirement 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 showing their correct name and date of birth. If either party has undergone a name change due to a divorce and their driver’s license does not reflect this change, they will need to bring a certified copy of their divorce decree. The application fee for a marriage license in Arkansas is $60.00.
Marriage ID Requirement Arkansas
In addition to a government-issued ID, applicants for a marriage license in Arkansas must be 18 years of age or older and possess 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 obtaining a marriage license. If both applicants are 18 years or older, the license may be issued immediately. However, for males aged 17 and females aged 16 or 17 who are seeking a marriage license with parental consent, a waiting period of 5 business days is mandatory.
Marriage Residency Requirement Arkansas
Couples do not need to be residents of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license within the state. The license is valid for use anywhere in Arkansas.
Previous Marriages
If either party has been previously married, they must provide their divorce decree or information about the date, county, and state of death of their previous spouse. If a name has changed due to a previous marriage, a certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary.
Marriage License Fees Arkansas
The marriage license fee in Arkansas is $60.00, and acceptable payment methods include cash. For information on additional payment options, applicants are advised to call ahead.
Covenant Marriages Arkansas
Act 1486 of 2001 introduced Covenant Marriages as an option for couples in Arkansas. This type of marriage requires a declaration of intent to contract a Covenant Marriage during the application process for a marriage license. It involves counseling by an authorized professional to emphasize the nature, purposes, and responsibilities of marriage.
Proxy Marriages Arkansas
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Arkansas. Both parties must be physically present during the application and ceremony.
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
No blood or medical tests are required to get married in Arkansas.
Name Change Arkansas
Obtaining a marriage license with a new name does not automatically change one’s last name. Individuals seeking a name change must follow the appropriate legal process or use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements Arkansas
For males, the minimum age for marriage is 17, and for females, it is 16-17 years. Parental consent is required, and there is a mandatory 5-day waiting period. In cases where the female is pregnant, the parties may appear before a judge to seek consent for marriage.
Marriage Officiants Arkansas
Justices of the Peace and registered ministers in Arkansas can solemnize marriages and must complete the necessary information on the marriage license. The applicants are responsible for returning the license to the County Clerk’s office within 60 days.
Marriage Witnesses Arkansas
Marriage ceremonies in Arkansas do not require witnesses.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a fundamental step in the journey towards marriage. In Arkansas, the process is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail and adherence to specific requirements. Couples must ensure they have the necessary identification, pay the application fee, and follow any additional guidelines set by the state. By completing this process successfully, they can move forward with their wedding plans and celebrate their love and commitment officially.
FAQs
- Is there a waiting period for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas? No, there is no waiting period if both parties are 18 years of age or older. However, applicants under 18 require parental consent and a mandatory 5-day waiting period.
- Can a Covenant Marriage be chosen in Arkansas? Yes, couples in Arkansas have the option to choose a Covenant Marriage, which involves additional counseling and a declaration of intent during the application process.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Arkansas? No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Arkansas. Both parties must be physically present during the application and ceremony.
- What forms of identification are accepted 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.
- Is a blood test required to get married in Arkansas? No, Arkansas does not require a blood or medical test to obtain a marriage license.
