Moniteau County
Marriage License Requirements

Planning a wedding in California, Missouri? Congratulations on this exciting journey! One of the essential steps in getting married in the Show-Me State is obtaining a marriage license. In this article, we’ll delve into all the details you need to know about marriage license fees in California, MO. From application requirements to fees and more, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

Navigating the Process

Before you say “I do,” you’ll need to navigate the process of obtaining a marriage license. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

In-Person Appearance

Both you and your partner must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy at:

Address: 200 East Main St., Room 102, California, MO 65018 Phone: (573) 796-2071 Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. / M – F (excluding Court Approved Holidays)

Certain exceptions apply for applicants who qualify under state and federal statutes. For instance, if one of you is incarcerated, on military duty assigned outside the state of Missouri, or disabled under ADA, please call ahead for specific instructions.

Valid Identification

Ensure you have valid identification containing your date of birth. A Social Security number is also required. If either of you doesn’t have a Social Security number, you’ll need to sign a form stating so.

Marriage Officiant Responsibilities

Once you have your marriage license, it’s your responsibility to deliver it to the person who will solemnize your marriage. The officiant must complete the license, have two witnesses (18 years of age or older) sign it, and return it to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days from the ceremony. Your license will then be recorded, scanned for preservation, and permanently stored in the County Recorder’s office.

Verification

Before making the trip to purchase your marriage license, it’s crucial to verify all information with your local County County Recorder’s office. Regulations and requirements can vary, so a quick check-in can save you time and ensure a smooth process.

Identification and Age Requirements

When applying for a marriage license in Missouri, identification and proof of age are required for all applicants. Here’s what’s accepted:

Age 16

• Legal, certified birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Custodial parent’s consent

Age 18

• Legal, certified birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Valid government-issued photo ID

Age 19 and Over

• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Social Security card (if not on the ID presented)
• Consent from parents (if applicable)
• If divorced, court papers to prove custody

Additional Details

Residency Requirement

Missouri does not have a residency requirement for marriage licenses, making it a popular choice for destination weddings.

Waiting Period

There is no waiting period for a Missouri marriage license. It becomes effective immediately upon issuance.

Previous Marriages

If you’ve been previously married, you must provide the date your last marriage ended. Divorced individuals cannot apply until their divorce has been final for a minimum of 30 days.

Marriage License Fee

The fee for a marriage license in Missouri is $45 or more. The preferred method of payment is cash. For information on alternative payment methods, please call ahead to the County Recorder’s office.

Blood Test

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

Name Change

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.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are not allowed in Missouri.

Cousin Marriages

Missouri prohibits marriages between blood relatives, including first cousins.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Missouri.

Who Can Solemnize Marriages

Marriages in Missouri can be solemnized by any clergyman, either active or retired, who is in good standing with any church or synagogue in the state. Municipal judges and religious societies or institutions can also solemnize marriages under specific conditions.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere within the state. If a marriage ceremony does not occur within this timeframe, the license becomes void.

Conclusion

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of marriage license fees and requirements in California, MO, you’re well-prepared to take the next steps towards your wedding day. Remember to plan ahead, gather the necessary documents, and adhere to the local regulations. Wishing you a joyous and love-filled journey as you prepare to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Missouri!

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a marriage license in Missouri if I’m not a resident of the state?

• Yes, Missouri does not have a residency requirement for marriage licenses.

2. Is there a waiting period for a Missouri marriage license?

• No, a Missouri marriage license is effective immediately upon issuance.

3. Do I need a blood test to obtain a marriage license in Missouri?

• No, a blood test is not required in Missouri.

4. How long is a Missouri marriage license valid?

• A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

5. Can I change my name on my marriage license in Missouri?

• No, 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 for this purpose.