Logan County
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a beautiful journey that starts with a simple yet significant step: obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Colorado, understanding the process and requirements for obtaining a marriage license is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from application to the validity of the license.
Introduction
Congratulations on your decision to get married! Before you exchange vows, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. This legal document permits you to officially marry your partner within the state of Colorado.
Application Process
Appearing in Person
Both you and your partner must appear in person to apply for the marriage license. This is a crucial step as it ensures that both parties are willingly entering into the marriage contract.
Absentee Application
If one party cannot be present due to illness, out-of-state status, or incarceration, the present party can bring the absentee application along with identification for the absent individual. The absentee application must be notarized in advance.
Required Cash Fee
A marriage license isn’t free. The fee for obtaining a marriage license is $30.00, payable in cash.
Identification Requirements
Proof of Age
To prove your age, you can present a valid driver’s license issued in the United States, a passport, a military ID, or a state-issued ID card.
Social Security Number
If either party doesn’t possess a social security number, they must sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office.
Place of Birth and Parents’ Information
The application form requires you to list the city and state of your birth, as well as your parents’ names and current addresses.
Accepted Forms of Identification
Various forms of identification are accepted, including birth certificates, valid driver’s licenses (or temporary ones), passports (both expired and valid), state identification cards, military identification, Alien Registration Cards (Green cards), and any U.S. government-issued identification with relevant details.
No Waiting Period
Unlike some states, Colorado doesn’t have a waiting period for getting married. Once you have your license, you’re ready to say “I do!”
Residency Requirements
You don’t need to be a resident of Colorado to obtain a marriage license within the state.
Divorce Information
If either party has recently finalized a divorce, the final decree must be presented. The details of the divorce, including the date and location, must be provided.
Marriage License Fees
The cost of a marriage license in Colorado is $30.00.
Proxy Marriages
Colorado allows proxy marriages. If one party cannot be present due to certain circumstances, they can obtain an absentee application.
Cousin Marriages
First and second cousins are permitted to legally marry in Colorado.
Common Law Marriages
Colorado recognizes common law marriages.
No Blood Test Required
Unlike some states, Colorado does not require blood tests before issuing a marriage license.
Name Change
Obtaining a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name legally. 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. If you’re 16 or 17, a notarized Parental Consent Form signed by both parents or legal guardians is required. Applicants under 15 need a court order for judicial approval.
Marriage Officiants
Couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado, and other authorized officiants include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy.
Witness Requirements
Witnesses are not required for marriage in Colorado, although some officials may request them.
Marriage License Expiration
Your marriage license is valid for 35 days. The completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after solemnization, or late fees will apply.
Recording the Marriage Certificate
Ensure the completed marriage certificate is returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording. Late fees will apply if this is not done on time.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, you can contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, Colorado. Reach them at 303.692.2234.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Colorado is a straightforward process with a few important steps and requirements. Remember that a marriage license is not just a piece of paper; it’s the legal foundation for your life together. Make sure to follow these guidelines to ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch.
FAQs
- Can we apply for a marriage license if we’re not Colorado residents?
- Yes, residency in Colorado is not required to obtain a marriage license.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado?
- No, there is no waiting period in Colorado.
- What if one party cannot be present during the application process?
- In such cases, an absentee application can be used, along with proper documentation.
- Are witnesses required for the marriage ceremony?
- No, witnesses are not required in Colorado, but some officiants may request them.
- How long is the marriage license valid?
- The marriage license is valid for 35 days, and the completed certificate must be returned within 63 days after the ceremony.
