Platte County
Marriage License Requirements

Marriage is a significant milestone in life, and one of the first steps in the journey to marital bliss is obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Platte City, Missouri, you’ll want to be well-informed about the process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential details you need to know about acquiring your marriage license in Platte County.

Navigating the Marriage License Process

Personal Appearance

Before you can embark on this exciting journey, both you and your future spouse must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy. This requirement ensures that all necessary documentation and information are accurately provided.

Valid Identification

To prove your identity and date of birth, you’ll need valid identification. Options include:

• Certified copy of a United States Birth Certificate
• Valid driver’s license (United States)
• Military I.D.
• State I.D.
• United States passport with visa or U.S. entry stamp
• Valid passport
• Green Card

For foreign applicants, a valid government-issued ID along with a certified English translation of any non-English identification is required. If you need a translator, make arrangements with your local County Recorder’s office well in advance.

Social Security Number

A Social Security number is a must. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to sign a form stating that you have no Social Security number.

Special Circumstances

Some applicants may qualify for exceptions under state and federal statutes, such as those who are incarcerated, on military duty outside of Missouri, or disabled under ADA. For specific instructions, it’s best to call ahead.

Responsibilities After Receiving the License

Once you have your marriage license, certain responsibilities must be fulfilled:

• The officiant must complete the license.
• Two witnesses, both 18 years of age or older, must sign it.
• The completed license must be returned to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days from the ceremony.

Recording and Preservation

Your license will be recorded and scanned for preservation, ensuring it remains on file permanently in the County Recorder’s office.

Verification

Before making the trip to purchase your marriage license, it’s crucial to verify all the information with your local County Recorder’s office.

Additional Marriage License Information

Residency Requirement

The good news is that Missouri does not have a residency requirement for marriage licenses. You can get married in Platte County, Missouri, even if you don’t reside there.

Waiting Period

In Missouri, there is no waiting period for a marriage license. Once you obtain it, you can proceed with your marriage plans immediately.

Previous Marriages

If you’ve been previously married, you’ll need to provide the date your last marriage ended. Divorced individuals cannot apply for a marriage license until their divorce has been final for at least 30 days.

Marriage License Fee

To obtain a marriage license in Platte County, Missouri, you’ll need to pay a fee of $51. The preferred method of payment is cash. For information on alternative payment methods, please call ahead to confirm.

Blood Test

There is no requirement for a blood test when applying for a marriage license in Missouri.

Name Change

It’s essential to note that obtaining a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you intend to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit for guidance.

Marriage Age Requirements

• Missouri’s minimum age to get married is 16, but anyone under 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian.
• Missouri will not issue marriage licenses if one party is under 18 and the other is 21 or older.
• Identification is required for all parties. Each marriage applicant must also show their Social Security number. The following documents will be accepted:
  • Age 16:
    • Birth certificate (legal, certified)
    • Social Security card
    • Valid government-issued photo ID
    • Custodial parent to give consent
  • Age 18:
    • Birth certificate (legal, certified)
    • Social Security card
    • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • Age 19 and over:
    • Valid government-issued photo ID
    • Social Security card (If the Social Security number is not on the ID presented)
    • Consenting parents:
      • Valid government-issued photo ID
      • If divorced, court papers to prove custody

Other Marriage-Related Information

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are not permitted in Missouri.

Cousin Marriages

Missouri law prohibits blood relatives, including first cousins, from marrying.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Missouri.

Who Can Solemnize Marriages

Marriages in Missouri can be solemnized by:

• Any clergyman, active or retired, in good standing with any church or synagogue in the state.
• Any judge, including a municipal judge.
• A religious society, institution, or organization of the state, according to their regulations and customs, if either party to the marriage is a member of that society, institution, or organization.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Your Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere within the state. If the marriage ceremony doesn’t take place, the license becomes void after thirty days from the issuance date. It’s essential to note that a Missouri marriage license is not valid for use outside the state.

Conclusion

Now that you’re well-informed about the process of obtaining a marriage license in Platte County, Missouri, you can approach this significant step in your life with confidence. Remember to ensure all your documentation is in order and follow the guidelines provided by your local County Recorder’s office. Your journey to marital bliss begins with this essential paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for a marriage license in Platte County, Missouri, if I don’t live there?

Yes, Missouri does not have a residency requirement for marriage licenses.

2. Is there a waiting period for a marriage license in Missouri?

No, there is no waiting period. You can proceed with your marriage plans immediately after obtaining the license.

3. Do I need a blood test to get a marriage license in Missouri?

No, there is no requirement for a blood test.

Pike County Marriage License Requirements

The fee for a marriage license is $51 in Platte County, Missouri.

5. How long is a Missouri marriage license valid?

A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere within the state.