McDonald County
Marriage License Requirements

If wedding bells are ringing in your near future, you’ll need to make sure you have all the legalities sorted out. One of the key components of getting married is obtaining a marriage license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining a marriage license in Missouri, including the application requirements, fees, and other important details. So, let’s dive in!

Introduction

Your journey to marital bliss begins with obtaining a marriage license. In Missouri, this document is a legal requirement that enables you to get married. Let’s take a step-by-step look at the process.

Marriage License Application Process

Appearing in Person

To apply for a marriage license in Missouri, both parties must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy. This personal appearance is a crucial step in the process.

Valid Identification

Valid identification that includes your date of birth is a requirement. This could be a certified copy of your United States Birth Certificate, a valid driver’s license, military ID, state ID, United States passport, or green card.

Social Security Number

A Social Security number is required. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to sign a form affirming that you don’t possess a Social Security number.

Officiate Responsibilities

Once the marriage ceremony is complete, the officiate must fill out the license and have two witnesses (18 years of age or older) sign it. The license should then be returned to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days of the ceremony.

Marriage ID Requirement in Missouri

Acceptable Forms of Identification

If you’re a US citizen, a certified copy of your United States Birth Certificate, a valid driver’s license, military ID, state ID, or a United States passport with visa or entry stamp are acceptable forms of identification. Foreign applicants must present a valid government-issued ID with a certified English translation.

Foreign Applicants

Foreign applicants need to arrange for an appointment with the local County Recorder’s office in advance if a translator is required.

Marriage Residency Requirement in Missouri

Missouri doesn’t have a residency requirement for marriage licenses. You can obtain a marriage license in Missouri regardless of where you live.

Marriage Waiting Period in Missouri

There’s no waiting period for a marriage license in Missouri. Once the license is issued, you’re free to get married immediately.

Previous Marriages and Divorce

Applicants who were previously married must provide the date when their last marriage ended. Divorced individuals must wait for a minimum of 30 days after their divorce is finalized before applying for a new marriage license.

Marriage License Fee in Missouri

The marriage license fee in Missouri is $45. It’s recommended to pay in cash, but you can inquire about alternative payment methods by calling ahead.

Marriage Blood Test

No blood test is required to obtain a marriage license in Missouri.

Name Change After Marriage

While getting a marriage license with your new name is an important step, it doesn’t automatically change your name. For a name change, you can consider using an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

Ages 16 and Under

In Missouri, individuals as young as 16 can get married with consent from a parent or guardian. However, Missouri will not issue marriage licenses if one party is under 18 and the other is 21 or older.

Age 18

If you’re 18 years or older, you’ll need a birth certificate, a Social Security card, and a valid government-issued photo ID.

Age 19 and Over

For individuals 19 and over, a valid government-issued photo ID is sufficient. If your Social Security number isn’t on your ID, you’ll need to provide it separately.

Proxy Marriages in Missouri

Proxy marriages are not allowed in Missouri.

Cousin Marriages

Missouri law prohibits blood relatives, including first cousins, from marrying each other.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Missouri.

Solemnize Marriages

Marriages in Missouri can be solemnized by clergy, judges, and religious societies or institutions.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and must be used for a ceremony within that time frame. If no ceremony takes place, the license becomes void.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage License

For information regarding marriage certificates, you can contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

Conclusion

Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage license in Missouri doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the requirements, fees, and essential steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your marital journey.

FAQs

Q1: How much does a marriage license cost in Missouri?

A1: The fee for a marriage license in Missouri is $45.

Q2: Is there a waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in Missouri?

A2: No, there is no waiting period for a marriage license in Missouri. It is effective immediately upon issuance.

Q3: Can I change my name immediately after getting a marriage license?

A3: Getting a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.

Q4: Are proxy marriages allowed in Missouri?

A4: No, proxy marriages are not allowed in Missouri.

Q5: What is the expiration date for a Missouri marriage license?

A5: A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. It must be used for a ceremony within that time frame. If a ceremony does not take place within 30 days, the license becomes void.