Miller County
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a sacred bond that unites two individuals in love and commitment. However, before you embark on this beautiful journey, there are certain legal formalities that need to be taken care of. One of the most crucial aspects of getting married in Missouri is obtaining a marriage license. In this article, we will delve into the details of the marriage license fee in Missouri and the requirements you must fulfill to obtain it.
Understanding the Marriage License Fee
Getting a marriage license in Missouri involves a nominal fee. As of the latest information available, the marriage license fee is $51.00. This fee is a mandatory requirement, and it helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing marriage licenses.
Where to Apply for a Marriage License
To apply for a marriage license in Missouri, you can visit the following location:
Address: 2001 Highway 52, Tuscumbia, MO 65082
Phone: (573) 369-1935
Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (except for Court Approved Holidays)
Marriage License Application Requirements
Before you can obtain a marriage license in Missouri, there are certain requirements you need to meet:
Personal Appearance
Both parties intending to marry must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy. However, there are exceptions to this rule for certain applicants, such as those who are incarcerated, on military duty assigned outside the state of Missouri, or disabled under ADA. In such cases, it is advisable to call ahead for specific instructions.
Valid Identification
You and your partner must provide valid identification that contains your date of birth. Additionally, a Social Security number will be required. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must sign a form stating that you have none.
Responsibility for the License
Applicants are responsible for delivering the license to the person who will solemnize their marriage. The officiant must complete the license, have two witnesses (who are 18 years of age or older) sign it, and return it to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days from the ceremony. The license will then be recorded, scanned for preservation, and permanently filed in the County Recorder’s office.
Verification
It is essential to verify all the information with your local County Recorder’s office before making a trip to purchase your marriage license. Requirements and procedures may vary slightly from one county to another.
Additional Marriage Requirements
In addition to the general requirements mentioned above, there are some other aspects to consider:
Identification and Proof of Age
All persons are required to provide identification and proof of age. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- Certified copy of a United States Birth Certificate
- Valid driver’s license (United States)
- Military I.D.
- State I.D.
- United States passport with visa or U.S. entry stamp
- Valid passport
- Green Card
Foreign applicants must present their valid government-issued ID along with a certified English translation of all non-English identification used. If a translator is needed, arrangements for an appointment with your local County Recorder’s office must be made well in advance.
Residency Requirement
Missouri does not have a residency requirement for marriage licenses. You do not need to be a resident of Missouri to get married in the state.
Waiting Period
There is no waiting period for a Missouri marriage license. Once you obtain it, it is effective immediately and can be used for your wedding ceremony right away.
Previous Marriages
If you or your partner have been previously married, you must provide the date on which your last marriage ended. Divorced individuals may not apply for a marriage license until their divorce has been final for a minimum of 30 days.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey to wedded bliss. In Missouri, the marriage license fee is $51.00, and it comes with certain requirements, including personal appearance, valid identification, and responsible handling of the license. Remember that while this article provides valuable information, it’s essential to double-check with your local County Recorder’s office for any specific details related to your marriage license application.
FAQs
1. Can we apply for a marriage license online?
No, you must apply for a marriage license in person at the County Recorder’s office.
2. Is the marriage license fee the same for all counties in Missouri?
The fee may vary slightly from one county to another, so it’s advisable to check with your local County Recorder’s office for the exact amount.
3. How long does it take to process a marriage license application?
The processing time can vary, but in most cases, you can obtain your license on the same day you apply.
4. Can we use our Missouri marriage license for a ceremony outside of the state?
No, a Missouri marriage license is only valid for ceremonies within the state.
5. What if we need to change our names after getting married?
Getting a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit to facilitate the process.
