Summit County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re considering tying the knot in Colorado, understanding the process and requirements for obtaining a marriage license is crucial. The marriage license fee in Colorado is a mere $30.00, making it a straightforward and affordable process. Let’s delve into the details to ensure you’re well-prepared for this important step in your journey to wedded bliss.
Introduction
Getting married is a significant life event, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. In Colorado, the marriage license fee is $30.00, an affordable investment in your lifelong commitment. Let’s explore the steps you need to follow to acquire your marriage license.
Application Process
Appearing in Person
Both parties seeking to wed must appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage license application. This requirement ensures the accuracy and validity of the application. If one party cannot be present due to illness, being out-of-state, or incarcerated, an absentee application can be submitted.
Absentee Application
In cases where one party can’t appear in person, the applying party must bring the absentee application, along with identification for the absent individual. The absentee application form must be notarized in advance to verify its authenticity.
Cash Requirement
When applying for a marriage license, a cash payment of $30.00 is necessary. This fee covers the processing of your application and issuance of the marriage license.
Identification Requirements
Proof of Age
Both applicants must provide identification to prove their age. Valid forms of identification include a Driver’s License issued in the United States, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card.
Social Security Number
If either party lacks a social security number, they must sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office during the application process.
Place of Birth and Parental Information
The application form mandates that the applicants list their place of birth (city and state) and the names and current addresses of their parents.
Acceptable IDs
The state recognizes various forms of identification, including birth certificates, valid driver’s licenses, passports (both expired and valid), military IDs, and other U.S. government-issued IDs.
Waiting Period and Residency
Waiting Period
Unlike some states, Colorado does not impose a waiting period for marriage. Once you have your license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony.
Residency Requirement
Colorado does not require applicants to be residents of the state in order to obtain a marriage license. This makes it a popular choice for destination weddings.
Divorce and Previous Marriages
If either party has finalized a divorce within the last 30 days, the final decree must be presented during the application process. For divorces that occurred more than 30 days ago, details regarding the date, place, and court of the divorce must be provided.
License Fees and Proxy Marriages
License Fee
The marriage license fee in Colorado is a flat $30.00, making it an affordable option for couples seeking to wed.
Proxy Marriages
Colorado allows proxy marriages under certain circumstances. If one party cannot be present due to illness, being out of state, or incarcerated, they can obtain an absentee application.
Marriage of Cousins and Common Law
Cousin Marriages
Colorado law permits first and second cousins to legally marry within the state.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado, providing an alternative option for couples seeking legal recognition.
Blood Tests and Name Change
Blood Tests
Colorado does not require blood tests for couples seeking a marriage license.
Name Change
Acquiring a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. For a name change, an online marriage name change kit can be used.
Marriage Age Requirements
The legal age for marriage without parental consent in Colorado is 18 years. Individuals aged 16 or 17 can marry with a written and notarized Parental Consent Form.
Marriage Officiants and Witnesses
Self-Solemnization
Couples in Colorado have the unique privilege of solemnizing their own marriage, but this doesn’t extend to friends or relatives signing as officiants on the marriage certificate.
Marriage Witnesses
Colorado does not require witnesses for the marriage ceremony, although some officiants may request them.
Expiration and Certificate Submission
The marriage license is valid for 35 days from issuance. 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. Late fees may apply after this deadline.
Conclusion
Acquiring a marriage license is a pivotal step towards officially uniting with your partner. Colorado’s straightforward process and affordable $30.00 marriage license fee make it an appealing choice for couples seeking to wed. Remember to adhere to the outlined requirements and guidelines to ensure a seamless experience.
FAQs
Q: How much is the marriage license fee in Colorado? A: The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30.00.
Q: Can I apply for a marriage license if I’m not a Colorado resident? A: Yes, Colorado does not require applicants to be residents of the state.
Q: Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? A: No, there is no waiting period in the state of Colorado.
Q: Can cousins marry in Colorado? A: Yes, first and second cousins are legally permitted to marry in Colorado.
Q: Do I need a blood test to get a marriage license in Colorado? A: No, Colorado does not require blood tests for marriage license applications.
