Pueblo County
Marriage License Requirements

Are wedding bells ringing in your future? If you’re planning to tie the knot in Pueblo, Colorado, you’re in the right place. Getting a marriage license is a crucial step in the process, and this guide will walk you through every detail you need to know.

Introduction

Your wedding day is a significant milestone, and obtaining a marriage license is an essential part of making it official. Let’s dive into the process step by step.

Marriage License Application Process

Both Applicants Must Apply in Person

Whether you’re a local or an out-of-state couple, both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. This requirement ensures that the application process is accurate and valid.

Absentee Application and Notarization

If one party cannot be present due to certain circumstances, such as illness, being out of state, or incarcerated, the absent party can still apply by submitting an absentee application. This form must be notarized in advance to confirm its authenticity.

Marriage License Fee

A marriage license in Pueblo, Colorado, comes with a fee of $30. This fee is payable in cash.

Identification for Proof of Age

To verify your age, you’ll need to present acceptable forms of identification. This could include a Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card issued in the United States.

Social Security Number

If you or your partner don’t have a social security number, an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office can be signed during the application process.

Providing Place of Birth and Parents’ Information

The application form requires you to list your place of birth (city and state) and your parents’ names and current addresses. These details help establish your identity.

Accepted Forms of Identification

Various forms of identification are accepted, including:

• Birth Certificate
• Valid Driver’s License (or temporary issued with voided previous license)
• Passport (both expired and valid)
• Valid state identification card (or temporary issued with voided previous ID)
• Military identification
• Alien Registration Card (Green card)
• Any U.S. government issued identification containing a photo, date of birth, issue date, and expiration date

Marriage Waiting Period

Unlike some states, there’s no waiting period for getting married in Colorado. Once you have your marriage license, you’re free to have your ceremony at any time.

Residency Requirements

Colorado does not impose any residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license. You don’t have to be a resident of the state to marry here.

Previous Marriages and Divorce Decrees

If you or your partner have been divorced within the last 30 days, you’ll need to provide the final decree signed by a judge or court referee. For divorces that are more than 30 days old, you’ll need to share information about the date, place, and court where the divorce was finalized.

Marriage License Fees

The cost of a marriage license in Colorado is a flat fee of $30.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are permitted in Colorado under specific circumstances. If one party cannot be present due to illness, being out of the state, or incarceration, they can obtain an absentee application.

Cousin Marriages

Colorado allows first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.

Marriage Blood Test

Unlike some states, Colorado does not require blood tests as part of the marriage license application process.

Name Change After Marriage

Obtaining a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you’ll need to use an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

The legal age for marriage without parental consent in Colorado is 18. If you’re aged 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required.

Marriage Officiants

Couples in Colorado have the unique option to solemnize their own marriage. Other authorized officiants include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy.

Marriage Witnesses

Unlike some states, witnesses are not required for your marriage ceremony in Colorado, although some officiants may request them.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Your marriage license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance. It’s important to note that the completed marriage certificate, along with the attached license, must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days after the ceremony. After this date, late fees will apply.

Returning the Completed Marriage Certificate

To ensure your marriage is officially recorded, the completed marriage certificate and attached license must be returned to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This must be done within 63 days of the ceremony.

Conclusion

Congratulations on your decision to tie the knot! Understanding the marriage license process is a vital step in preparing for your big day. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the requirements and make your union official.

FAQs

Q1: How much does a marriage license cost in Colorado? A: The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.

Q2: Can I apply for a marriage license if I’m not a resident of Colorado? A: Yes, Colorado does not require applicants to be residents of the state.

Q3: Is there a waiting period to get married in Colorado? A: No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Colorado.

Q4: Are witnesses required for the marriage ceremony? A: Witnesses are not required, but some officiants may request them.

Q5: How long is the marriage license valid for? A: The marriage license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance.