Otero County Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in the picturesque town of La Junta, Colorado, you’re in for a treat. With its charming streets and serene landscapes, La Junta offers a perfect setting for your dream wedding. To make your union official, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license, and we’re here to guide you through the process step by step. From application requirements to important details, we’ve got you covered.
Getting Started: Applying for a Marriage License
To embark on this exciting journey, both applicants must appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage application. In case one party is unable to be present due to certain circumstances, such as illness, being out-of-state, or incarceration, the applying party must bring the absentee application along with identification for the absent individual. Remember, the absentee application form needs to be notarized in advance. A $30 cash fee is required for the marriage license.
Identification: Proof of Age and Social Security Number
For proof of age, acceptable forms of identification include a United States Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card. If one of the parties does not have a social security number, they can sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office during the application process. The place of birth, as well as parents’ names and current addresses, must also be listed on the application form.
Marriage Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Colorado. Additionally, you don’t need to be a resident of Colorado to apply for a marriage license.
Previous Marriages: What You Need to Know
If either party has recently finalized a divorce within 30 days of applying for the marriage license, the final decree must be presented. For divorces finalized more than 30 days ago, provide details about the date, place, and court where the divorce was settled.
Marriage License Fees in Colorado
The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30, making it an affordable and accessible option for couples.
Proxy Marriages, Cousin Marriages, and Common Law Marriages
Colorado allows proxy marriages if one party cannot be present due to specific circumstances. Furthermore, first and second cousins are legally permitted to marry, along with the recognition of common law marriages.
Marriage Blood Test and Name Change
Good news for couples – Colorado does not require blood tests for marriage. However, if you plan to change your last name, you can utilize an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements and Officiants
The legal age for marriage without parental consent in Colorado is 18 years. For those aged 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form signed by both parents or legal guardians is required. Those 15 years old or younger must obtain a court order granting judicial approval.
Couples have the option to solemnize their own marriage, and other officials, such as judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy, can also officiate the ceremony.
Witnesses and Expiration Date of Marriage License
Unlike many places, witnesses are not required for your Colorado marriage. The marriage license is valid for 35 days, and the completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after the solemnization.
How to Obtain a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate
To obtain a copy of your marriage certificate, you can contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This step ensures your marital record is properly documented.
FAQs
- How much does a marriage license cost in Colorado? The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Colorado.
- Can first cousins marry in Colorado? Yes, first cousins can legally marry in Colorado.
- Do we need witnesses for our marriage ceremony? No, witnesses are not required for your marriage ceremony in Colorado.
- How long is the marriage license valid? The marriage license is valid for 35 days, and the completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after the solemnization.
