San Miguel County
Marriage License Requirements
Are wedding bells ringing in your near future? Before you exchange vows and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in your life, there’s an important legal step you need to take – obtaining a marriage license. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting a marriage license in the charming town of Telluride, Colorado. From the application requirements to the fees and everything in between, let’s dive into the details.
Introduction
So, you’re ready to take the plunge into wedded bliss? Congratulations! The first step is obtaining a marriage license, which is a legal document required for your marriage to be recognized by the state. In Telluride, Colorado, the process is straightforward, and we’re here to guide you through it.
Application Process
Appearing in Person
Both you and your partner must appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage application. This is a crucial step to ensure the authenticity of the application.
Absentee Application
If one party cannot be present due to specific reasons, such as illness, being out-of-state, or incarceration, an absentee application can be used. The absentee application form must be notarized in advance.
Cash for License Fee
A fee of $30.00 is required for obtaining a marriage license. Make sure to bring cash for this purpose.
Required Identification
Proof of Age
Valid identification for proof of age includes a Driver’s License issued in the United States, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card.
Social Security Number
If either party does not have a social security number, they can sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office during the application process.
Place of Birth and Parents’ Information
The application form requires the city and state of your place of birth, as well as the names and current addresses of your parents.
Acceptable Forms of ID
Various forms of identification are acceptable, including Birth Certificates, valid Driver’s Licenses, Passports, Military IDs, Alien Registration Cards (Green cards), and other U.S. government-issued IDs with relevant information.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Colorado. Once you have your license, you’re good to go!
Residency Requirements
Good news for non-residents: you do not need to be a Colorado resident to apply for a marriage license in the state.
Dealing with Previous Marriages
If you or your partner have been divorced within the last 30 days, you’ll need to provide the final decree. This requirement ensures that all legal obligations from previous marriages have been met.
Marriage License Fees
The cost of a marriage license in Colorado is $30.00, payable in cash.
Proxy Marriages
In cases where one party cannot be present, such as due to illness or incarceration, an absentee application can be obtained.
Cousin Marriages
Colorado law permits first and second cousins to marry.
Common Law Marriages
Yes, common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.
No Blood Test Required
Unlike some states, Colorado does not require couples to undergo a blood test before getting married.
Changing Your Name
While you can get a marriage license with your new name on it, this does not automatically change your name. If you want to change your last name, you’ll need to follow the appropriate legal process.
Marriage Age Requirements
If you’re 18 years old, you can apply for a marriage license without parental consent. For ages 16 and 17, a notarized Parental Consent Form signed by both parents or legal guardians is necessary. Applicants under 15 years old require a court order.
Authorized 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.
Need for Witnesses
Witnesses are not required by law in Colorado, although some officiants may request them.
Expiration of Marriage License
Your marriage license is valid for 35 days. Make sure to complete all necessary steps within this timeframe.
Recording Your Marriage Certificate
After your wedding, the completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days.
Contact Information
For further assistance and information, you can contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, Colorado, or call them at 303.692.2234.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in making your union official. By following the guidelines and requirements outlined here, you’ll be well-prepared to start your married life together in beautiful Telluride, Colorado. Cheers to love and legalities!
FAQs
1. How much does a marriage license cost in Colorado? The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.00.
2. Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? No, there is no waiting period once you have your marriage license.
3. Can I change my name on my marriage license? Having your new name on the marriage license doesn’t automatically change it. You’ll need to follow the legal name change process separately.
4. Are witnesses required for a marriage ceremony in Colorado? While witnesses are not legally required, some officiants may request them.
5. How long do I have to record my marriage certificate after the ceremony? You must return the completed marriage certificate to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after the solemnization.
