Moffat County
Marriage License Requirements

Getting married is a joyous occasion that marks the beginning of a beautiful journey shared between two people in love. But before you say “I do,” there are certain legalities you must adhere to. One of these is obtaining a marriage license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential information about marriage licenses in Colorado, from application requirements to fees and more.

Introduction

Getting married in Colorado is an exciting endeavor, and a crucial step in this process is obtaining a marriage license. This legal document allows you to solemnize your marriage within the state. Here’s everything you need to know about marriage licenses in Colorado.

Applying for a Marriage License

To begin the process, both applicants must appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage application. In case one party cannot be present due to various reasons, such as illness or being out-of-state, the absentee application must be brought along with proper identification for the absent party. The absentee application form should be notarized in advance.

Required Documents

To complete the application, you’ll need to provide the following documents:

• $30 in cash for the marriage license fee
• Proof of age, such as a valid U.S. driver’s license, passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card
• Social Security numbers, or an affidavit for those without one
• Place of birth (city and state)
• Parents’ names and current addresses

No Waiting Period

Colorado doesn’t impose a waiting period for couples to get married after obtaining the license. Once you have your license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony at any time.

Residency Requirements

Unlike some states, Colorado doesn’t require couples to be residents of the state in order to apply for a marriage license. This means that couples from anywhere can choose Colorado as their wedding destination.

Previous Marriages

If either party has been divorced within 30 days before applying for the marriage license, the final decree of divorce must be presented. For divorces finalized more than 30 days prior, information about the date and place of divorce, as well as the court where it was finalized, must be provided.

Marriage License Fees

The cost of obtaining a marriage license in Colorado is $30. This fee can usually be paid in cash at the time of application.

Proxy Marriages

Colorado allows proxy marriages, which means that if one party is unable to appear due to circumstances like illness, being out of the state, or incarceration, they can obtain an absentee application to proceed with the marriage.

Cousin Marriages

In Colorado, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado. This means that if you meet the legal requirements for a common law marriage, you’ll have the same rights as couples who have gone through a formal ceremony.

Marriage Blood Test

Unlike some states, Colorado doesn’t require couples to undergo a blood test before getting married.

Name Change

Obtaining a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

The legal age for marriage without parental consent in Colorado is 18 years old. For those aged 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required.

Marriage Officiants

Couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado. Others who can officiate marriages include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy. However, self-solemnization doesn’t permit a friend or relative to sign as an officiant on a marriage certificate.

Marriage Witnesses

Unlike some states, witnesses are not required to be present during the marriage ceremony in Colorado. Some officials may request them, but they are not mandatory.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

A marriage license in Colorado is valid for 35 days. The completed marriage certificate, along with the attached license, must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days after the ceremony. Late fees may apply after this period.

Recording Your Marriage Certificate

After your wedding ceremony, the completed marriage certificate must be recorded with the County Clerk’s office. This can be done by mailing it to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey of wedded bliss. Colorado’s straightforward process ensures that you can focus on celebrating your love and commitment to one another without unnecessary stress.

FAQs

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

A: The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.

Q2: Can I get married immediately after obtaining the license?

A: Yes, there is no waiting period after obtaining the license in Colorado.

Q3: Are witnesses required at the marriage ceremony?

A: No, witnesses are not required, but some officials may request them.

Q4: Can I change my name on the marriage license?

A: Obtaining a license with your new name doesn’t automatically change it; you’ll need to use a marriage name change kit.

Q5: What’s the legal age for marriage without parental consent in Colorado?

A: The legal age is 18 years old. Those aged 16 or 17 require a notarized Parental Consent Form.