Perry County
Marriage Certificate Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in Alabama, understanding the process of obtaining a marriage certificate is crucial. From the necessary documents to the fees involved, this article will guide you through the ins and outs of securing your marriage certificate. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
Getting married is a momentous occasion, and the first step towards legalizing your union is obtaining a marriage certificate. In Alabama, this process involves several important steps and requirements. Let’s explore the key aspects of securing your marriage certificate.
Applying for a Marriage Certificate
To initiate the process, you need to visit the Perry County Courthouse located at 300 Washington St, Marion, AL 36756. The courthouse operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding court-approved holidays. You’ll be pleased to know that under Alabama Act 2019-340, the need for applying for a marriage license has been eliminated. Instead, you’ll be required to submit a marriage certificate.
Alabama Marriage Certificate Requirements
Whether you’re of legal age with parental consent at 16 or without parental consent at 18, or even in a same-sex marriage, you can obtain a marriage certificate in Alabama. Thankfully, there’s no waiting period, and the certificate remains valid for 30 days. In addition, blood tests and residency are not required, making the process smoother.
Completing the Marriage Certificate Form
Obtaining a marriage certificate involves completing a standardized form provided by the state, county probate judge’s office, or online. This form collects essential information about each spouse, which must be fully completed and witnessed by a notary. Afterward, submit the form along with the filing fee to the county Probate Judge’s office within 30 days of signing.
Identification and Residency Requirements
To apply for a marriage certificate in Alabama, you’ll need to provide valid identification. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, non-driver’s license, passport, certified birth certificate, military identification, or certified school record. If you’ve been divorced, a copy of your Divorce Decree may also be required.
Waiting Period and Previous Marriages
Fortunately, Alabama has no waiting period for obtaining a marriage certificate, except for cases involving recent divorces. In such instances, there’s a mandatory 60-day waiting period after the divorce is final. If you’re a non-resident seeking a county marriage official’s services, a three-day waiting period might apply, so it’s best to verify this with your local County Probate office.
Marriage Certificate Fees
In Perry County, obtaining a marriage certificate will cost you $70. It’s recommended to make payment in cash, as it is the preferred method. This fee covers the processing and recording of your marriage certificate.
Blood Test and Name Change
Gone are the days when a premarital blood test was required in Alabama. As for a name change, having your new name on your marriage certificate doesn’t automatically change your name legally. To facilitate this change, you can explore online marriage name change kits.
Marriage Age Requirements
If you’re between the ages of 16 and 17, you can enter into marriage with parental or guardian consent. Special forms are available for this purpose. For parties aged 18 and above, a separate marriage certificate form is applicable.
Additional Marriage Details
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Alabama, and cousins who are first and second cousins are legally permitted to marry. The state also recognizes common-law marriages based on certain conditions. However, solemnization is no longer necessary for a recognized marriage in Alabama.
Officiants and Expiration Date
In Alabama, wedding officiants are no longer required to solemnize marriages for them to be recognized. The marriage certificate remains valid for 30 days from the date of being signed. The effective marriage date is determined by the spouses’ signature dates.
Copy of Marriage Certificate
Should you need a copy of your marriage certificate, you can obtain it from the Alabama Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics. Located at 434 Monroe St., Montgomery, Alabama 36130-3017, the office can assist you with obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate.
Conclusion
Securing your marriage certificate is an important step in the journey of marital bliss. With Alabama’s simplified requirements and processes, you can focus on celebrating your love without unnecessary complications. Remember to adhere to the guidelines provided by your local County Probate office to ensure a seamless experience.
FAQs
- Can non-residents get married in Alabama? Yes, non-residents can get married in Alabama. However, there might be a waiting period for marriages performed by a county marriage official.
- Is a blood test required for marriage in Alabama? No, a premarital blood test is no longer required in Alabama.
- Can I change my name through my marriage certificate? Obtaining a marriage certificate with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name legally. You can use an online marriage name change kit for this purpose.
- What is the cost of a marriage certificate in Perry County, Alabama? The marriage certificate fee in Perry County is $70, payable in cash.
- Is solemnization required for a recognized marriage in Alabama? No, solemnization is no longer required for a recognized marriage in Alabama.
