Pike County
Marriage License Requirements
Planning a wedding involves many details, and one crucial aspect that you should have a clear understanding of is the marriage license fee. This article will guide you through all the essential information you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas. From application requirements to residency details, we’ve got you covered.
Introduction
Your wedding day is a significant milestone, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in making it official. In Arkansas, the marriage license fee is $60.00, and there are specific requirements and procedures you need to follow to ensure a smooth process.
Application Process
Identification Requirements
For both parties to apply for a marriage license, they must be 18 years of age or older and present a valid government-issued identification that shows their correct name and date of birth. If either party has changed their name due to a divorce and their driver’s license doesn’t reflect this change, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required.
Name Change Considerations
It’s important to note that obtaining a marriage license with a new name doesn’t automatically change your name. If you need to change your last name, you’ll need to go through a separate process.
Application Fee
The application fee for a marriage license in Arkansas is $60.00. This fee is payable in cash, and it’s essential to inquire about any alternative payment methods by contacting the appropriate office beforehand.
Marriage ID Requirement
Both parties must be 18 years or older and provide one of the following forms of identification:
- State-issued I.D.
- Valid Driver’s License
- Indian Card
- Passport or Visa (not expired)
- Military I.D.
- Original Birth Certificate
Marriage Waiting Period
There is no waiting period required in Arkansas for obtaining a marriage license. If both applicants are age 18 or over, the license can be issued immediately. However, if a male is 17 or a female is 16 or 17 and obtaining a marriage license with parental consent, a waiting period of 5 business days applies.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You don’t need to be a resident of Arkansas to apply for a marriage license. The license is valid for use anywhere within the state.
Previous Marriages
If you were previously married, you’ll need to provide your divorce decree or information about the date, county, and state of death of your previous spouse. If your name has changed due to a divorce, a certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary.
Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fee in Arkansas is $60.00. This fee must be paid in cash, and it’s important to inquire about alternative payment methods if needed.
Covenant Marriages
Covenant marriages are a unique option for couples in Arkansas. By declaring their intent on the marriage license application and executing a Declaration of Intent to contract a Covenant Marriage, couples can opt for this type of marriage.
Proxy Marriages
Unfortunately, Arkansas does not allow proxy marriages.
Cousin Marriages
Cousin marriages are not permitted in Arkansas.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
Marriage Blood Test
There is no requirement for a blood or medical test to get married in Arkansas.
Name Change
While getting a marriage license with your new name is a step towards changing your name, it doesn’t automatically change it. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements
Males aged 17 and females aged 16-17 require parental consent, along with a mandatory 5-day waiting period. Parental consent includes various scenarios, such as both parents’ approval, custodial parent consent, or paternity determination.
Marriage Officiants
Marriages can be solemnized by Justices of the Peace in Arkansas, and ministers can also perform marriages as long as their credentials are recorded in the state. Ministers need to complete certain information on the marriage license, but they are not responsible for returning the license after the ceremony.
Marriage Witnesses
No witnesses are required for marriages in Arkansas.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
A marriage license in Arkansas is valid for sixty (60) days. While you can use the license anywhere in the state, you must return it to the County Clerk’s office where you initially applied.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
To obtain a copy of your marriage license, you can contact the Division of Vital Records with the provided details.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the wedding planning process. Understanding the requirements and procedures involved will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Remember to meet all the necessary criteria and follow the guidelines to make your marriage license application a success.
FAQs
- Can I pay the marriage license fee using a credit card? Unfortunately, the fee is payable only in cash. It’s advisable to inquire about alternative payment methods in advance.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Arkansas? No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Arkansas.
- Is there a waiting period for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas? There is no waiting period if both applicants are age 18 or over. However, a 5-day waiting period applies if one of the parties is a male aged 17 or a female aged 16 or 17 with parental consent.
- What is a Covenant Marriage? A Covenant Marriage is an option for couples in Arkansas. It involves a declaration of intent and authorized counseling before the marriage.
- Is common law marriage recognized in Arkansas? No, Arkansas does not recognize common law marriages.
