Pike County
Marriage License Requirements
If wedding bells are ringing in your future, it’s important to have all your ducks in a row when it comes to legalities. One crucial aspect is obtaining a marriage license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about marriage license fees, requirements, procedures, and more in the state of Missouri.
Obtaining a Marriage License
To start the journey to marital bliss, both parties must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy at the Pike County Courthouse. However, certain exceptions apply, such as applicants who are incarcerated, on military duty outside Missouri, or disabled under ADA. Always call ahead for specific instructions.
Identification and Social Security
Valid identification that includes the date of birth is a must. A Social Security number is also required. If you lack a Social Security number, a form attesting to its absence must be signed.
Officiant’s Responsibility
Once you have the license, it’s the officiant’s duty to complete it, with two witnesses (18 years or older) signing as well. The license then returns to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days of the ceremony. This ensures that your marital union is legally recorded and preserved.
Identification and Proof of Age
For everyone involved, identification and proof of age are mandatory. Accepted forms include a certified copy of a United States Birth Certificate, driver’s license, military I.D., state I.D., passport, green card, and more. Foreign applicants must provide their valid government-issued ID along with a certified English translation if necessary.
Residency Requirement
Unlike some states, Missouri does not impose a residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license. This means that you don’t need to be a resident of Missouri to get married here.
Waiting Period and Previous Marriages
There is no waiting period for a Missouri marriage license; it becomes effective immediately upon issuance. However, if you’re previously married, you must wait for a minimum of 30 days after the finalization of your divorce before applying for a new license.
Marriage License Fee
As of the latest information, the marriage license fee in Missouri is $45. However, it’s advisable to check ahead of time as fees can change. Preferred payment is in cash, and if you have questions about alternative payment methods, don’t hesitate to inquire.
Marriage Blood Test
The good news for couples planning to wed in Missouri is that there is no longer a requirement for a blood test.
Name Change
While obtaining a marriage license with your new name is a significant step, it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you want to change your last name, you’ll need to follow the appropriate legal procedures.
Marriage Age Requirements
In Missouri, the minimum age to get married is 16, provided there is consent from a parent or guardian. If one party is under 18 and the other is 21 or older, a marriage license will not be issued. Various documents, including birth certificates, Social Security cards, and valid government-issued photo IDs, are required to establish identity and age.
Proxy Marriages, Cousin Marriages, and Common Law Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Missouri. Additionally, the state does not permit marriages between blood relatives, even first cousins. However, common law marriages are recognized.
Solemnizing Marriages
Marriages in Missouri can be solemnized by clergy members in good standing with any church or synagogue in the state. Judges, including municipal judges, can also officiate, as well as religious societies and organizations.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Your Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means you have a month to hold your ceremony, anywhere within the state. If the ceremony doesn’t take place, the license becomes void after thirty days.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
Should you require a copy of your marriage license certificate, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is the place to contact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can we apply for a marriage license if one of us is below 18 years old?Missouri law requires that both parties be at least 16 years old to marry, and anyone under 18 must have parental consent.
- What if we’re from out of state? Can we still get married in Missouri?Yes, you can. Missouri does not have a residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
- Is a blood test necessary to get a marriage license in Missouri?No, a blood test is no longer required for a marriage license in Missouri.
- Can we change our names on the marriage license?While you can obtain a marriage license with your new name, changing your name legally requires following specific procedures.
- How long is the marriage license valid?A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and must be used for a ceremony within that time.
