Saline County
Marriage License Requirements
Are you planning to tie the knot in Arkansas? Understanding the marriage license process is an essential step in making your special day official. From application requirements to marriage officiants, this article provides you with all the information you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas.
Introduction
Congratulations on your decision to get married in Arkansas! Before you start planning your wedding, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license. This document is not only a legal requirement for your marriage to be recognized, but it’s also a symbolic representation of your commitment to each other.
Application Requirements
Age Requirement and Identification
To apply for a marriage license in Arkansas, both parties must be 18 years or older and present a valid government-issued identification that shows their correct name and date of birth.
Name Change and Divorce Decree
If either party has changed their name due to a divorce and their driver’s license does not reflect this change, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required.
Application Fee
The application fee for a marriage license in Arkansas is $60.00, payable in cash.
Returning the Marriage License
Whether the marriage license is used or unused, it must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within SIXTY (60) days from the date of issuance.
Marriage ID Requirement
Both parties must provide proof of identification. Accepted forms of ID include state-issued I.D., valid driver’s license, Indian Card, passport, visa (not expired), military I.D., and original birth certificate.
Marriage Waiting Period Requirement
There is no waiting period required for couples aged 18 or over. However, if one party is male and 17 years old, or female and 16-17 years old, a waiting period of 5 business days is mandatory when obtaining a marriage license with parental consent.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You do not need to be a resident of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license. The license can be used anywhere within the state.
Previous Marriages
If you’ve been 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, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required.
Marriage License Fees
The fee for an Arkansas marriage license is $60.00, payable in cash. For other payment methods, it’s recommended to call ahead for guidance.
Covenant Marriages
Covenant marriages are an option in Arkansas. Couples can declare their intent to enter a Covenant Marriage on their Application for Marriage license. This type of marriage requires authorized counseling.
Proxy Marriages
Arkansas does not allow proxy marriages.
Cousin Marriages
Cousin marriages are not allowed in Arkansas.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Arkansas.
Marriage Blood Test
No blood or medical tests are required to get married in Arkansas.
Name Change
Getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. An online marriage name change kit can help with the process.
Marriage Age Requirements
Males must be 17 years of age, and females must be 16-17 years old. Parental consent is required, and there’s a mandatory 5-day waiting period.
Marriage Officiants
Justices of the Peace and registered ministers can solemnize marriages. Their information must be recorded in an Arkansas county. The marriage license must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within SIXTY (60) DAYS.
Marriage Witnesses
No witnesses are required for marriages in Arkansas.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license is valid for sixty (60) days. It can be used anywhere in Arkansas but must be returned to the County Clerk’s office where it was first obtained.
Obtaining a Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
For a copy of your marriage license, contact the Division of Vital Records in Little Rock.
Conclusion
Congratulations again on your upcoming marriage! By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of the requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license in Arkansas. Remember, while planning your wedding is exciting, ensuring all the legalities are in order is equally important.
FAQs
- Can we apply for a marriage license if we’re not residents of Arkansas?
- Yes, you don’t have to be a resident of Arkansas to obtain a marriage license. It’s valid anywhere in the state.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Arkansas?
- There’s no waiting period for couples aged 18 or over. However, parental consent and a 5-day waiting period are required for certain age groups.
- Can I change my name through the marriage license?
- Getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. You’ll need to go through a separate name change process.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Arkansas?
- No, Arkansas does not allow proxy marriages.
- How long is the marriage license valid for?
- The marriage license is valid for sixty (60) days from the date of issuance.
