Montgomery County
Marriage License Requirements
Are wedding bells in your future? If you’re planning to tie the knot in Montgomery City, Missouri, understanding the marriage license requirements and procedures is crucial. From the necessary documents to the application process, we’ve got you covered. Let’s delve into the details to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch.
Marriage License Application Process
Getting your marriage license is an essential step before your big day. Both partners must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy at the Montgomery City office located at 211 East Third St. The application process requires valid identification containing your date of birth. Additionally, a Social Security number is needed, but if you don’t have one, you can sign a form stating so.
Once you have your license, it’s your responsibility to deliver it to the person who will officiate your marriage. After the ceremony, the officiant must complete the license, and two witnesses over 18 years of age need to sign it. The completed license must then be returned to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days from the ceremony. This ensures your marriage is properly recorded and preserved.
ID Requirements and Residency
Proof of age is mandatory for all applicants. This can be done through a certified copy of a United States Birth Certificate, valid driver’s license, military I.D., state I.D., United States passport with a visa or entry stamp, valid passport, Green Card, or a valid government-issued ID for foreign applicants. Foreign applicants need to provide a certified English translation of non-English identification if necessary.
Marriage Waiting Period and Previous Marriages
Good news for those planning to marry in Missouri: there’s no waiting period once you have your marriage license. However, if you’ve been previously married, there are regulations to consider. If you’re divorced, you must wait at least 30 days after the divorce has been finalized before applying for a new marriage license.
Marriage License Fee and Name Change
The fee for a marriage license is $45 + in Missouri. It’s recommended to pay in cash, but if you need alternative payment methods, you can call ahead for guidance. Remember, getting a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you want to change your last name, an online marriage name change kit can help.
Age Requirements and Consent
Missouri sets a minimum age of 16 for marriage, but anyone under 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian. Interestingly, Missouri won’t issue marriage licenses if one party is under 18 and the other is 21 or older. The age requirements demand appropriate documentation, such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, and valid government-issued photo IDs.
Additional Considerations
While some states allow proxy marriages, Missouri doesn’t. The same applies to cousin marriages—blood relatives, including first cousins, can’t marry in the state. However, common law marriages are recognized in Missouri. The state also offers various options for solemnizing marriages, from clergy members to judges and religious organizations.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding is a joyous, but intricate, endeavor. Ensuring you meet all the legal requirements for your marriage license is a vital part of the process. From identification to fees and waiting periods, knowing the ins and outs will help you focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love.
FAQs
- Can I change my name on the marriage license? Yes, but it won’t automatically change your name everywhere else. Consider using a marriage name change kit.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Missouri? No, once you have your marriage license, you can get married immediately.
- Can I have a proxy marriage in Missouri? No, Missouri doesn’t allow proxy marriages.
- Are cousin marriages legal in Missouri? No, cousin marriages are not permitted by Missouri law.
- What’s the expiration date for a Missouri marriage license? A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and must be used within that time frame.
