Saint Francois County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in Farmington, MO, understanding the marriage license fee and requirements is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the details you need to know to obtain your marriage license hassle-free.
The Basics
Location
The process begins at the address: 1 West Liberty St., Room 100, Farmington, MO 63640 Phone: (573)756-2323
Office Hours
The office operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on Court Approved Holidays.
Selecting Your Officiant
Missouri offers various wedding officiants for your special day. You can submit one form to top-rated marriage officiants in your locality and choose the one that suits you best.
Legal Guidance
If you have legal questions regarding your marriage, you can seek expert advice from lawyers online. 24 lawyers are available to answer your queries promptly.
Application Requirements
Personal Appearance
Both parties must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy. However, specific exceptions apply, such as for incarcerated individuals, those on military duty outside Missouri, or those with disabilities under the ADA. Please call ahead for instructions if you fall into these categories.
Identification
Valid identification containing the date of birth is mandatory. Additionally, a Social Security number will be required. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to sign a form stating so.
Marriage License Processing
Once you’ve obtained your license, several steps follow:
Officiating the Ceremony
The officiant must complete the license and have two witnesses (aged 18 or older) sign it. Afterward, they must return it to the County Recorder’s office within fifteen days from the ceremony.
Recordkeeping
The license is then recorded, scanned for preservation, and remains on file permanently in the County Recorder’s office.
Verification
Before heading out to purchase your marriage license, it’s crucial to verify all information with your local County Recorder’s office.
Additional Requirements
Residency
Missouri doesn’t have a residency requirement for marriage licenses. You can obtain one regardless of your place of residence.
Waiting Period
There is no waiting period for a Missouri marriage license; it becomes effective immediately upon issuance.
Previous Marriages
If you’ve been previously married, you must provide the date when your last marriage ended. Divorced individuals must wait for a minimum of 30 days after the divorce’s finalization before applying for a new marriage license.
Fee Details
The fee for a marriage license in Missouri is $45 or more, with cash being the preferred method of payment. For information on alternative payment methods, it’s advisable to call ahead.
Blood Test
Missouri doesn’t require a blood test for a marriage license.
Name Change
Obtaining a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Age Requirements
Minimum Age
The minimum age to get married in Missouri is 16, but anyone under 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian.
Age Restrictions
Missouri won’t issue marriage licenses if one party is under 18 and the other is 21 or older. All parties must show identification, including their Social Security numbers.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages aren’t allowed in Missouri.
Cousin Marriages
Missouri prohibits marriages between blood relatives, including first cousins.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are recognized in Missouri.
Solemnizing Marriages
Marriages in Missouri can be solemnized by clergy, judges, or religious organizations, provided certain conditions are met.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Farmington, MO, is a straightforward process. Ensure you meet the necessary requirements and follow the guidelines outlined here. Remember that a Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can only be used within the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can we apply for a marriage license online? No, you must appear in person before the Recorder or Deputy to apply for a marriage license.
- Is there a waiting period for a Missouri marriage license? No, a Missouri marriage license becomes effective immediately upon issuance.
- What forms of identification are accepted? Valid identification containing your date of birth is required. Additionally, a Social Security number is mandatory.
- Can we get married outside of Missouri with a Missouri marriage license? No, a Missouri marriage license is only valid for ceremonies within the state.
- What do we do if we need legal advice regarding our marriage? You can ask legal questions online, and 24 lawyers are available to provide answers promptly.
