Teller County
Marriage License Requirements
Are you planning to tie the knot in beautiful Colorado? If so, understanding the marriage license process is a crucial step to ensure your special day goes smoothly. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential details you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Colorado, from application requirements to important documents. Let’s dive in!
Applying for a Marriage License
Both Applicants Must Appear in Person
When applying for a marriage license in Colorado, both parties must visit the issuing office in person. This ensures that the necessary information is provided accurately and that both individuals are fully aware of the process.
Absentee Application for Special Cases
In cases where one party cannot be present due to illness, being out-of-state, or incarceration, the applying party must bring the absentee application form. This form must be notarized in advance to ensure its authenticity.
Marriage License Fee
To obtain a marriage license, there is a fee of $30. This fee is payable in cash.
Identification for Proof of Age and Social Security Number
Applicants are required to provide valid identification for proof of age. This can include a Driver’s License issued in the United States, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card. Additionally, if either party doesn’t have a social security number, an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office is required.
Providing Birthplace and Parents’ Information
The application form should include the place of birth (city and state) of both parties. Furthermore, the names and current addresses of the parents must be listed on the application form.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
Various forms of identification are acceptable when applying for a marriage license. These include:
- 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 essential information
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a waiting period for getting married. This means that you can obtain your marriage license and get married on the same day.
Residency Requirements
Colorado does not require applicants to be residents of the state. Anyone can apply for a marriage license in Colorado, regardless of their residency status.
Dealing with Previous Marriages
If either party has recently gone through a divorce, the final decree must be produced if the divorce was finalized within 30 days of applying for the marriage license. If the divorce was finalized more than 30 days ago, details about the date, place, and court of divorce must be provided.
Marriage License Fees
The fee for a marriage license in Colorado is $30. This fee helps cover administrative costs and is payable at the time of application.
Proxy Marriages
In cases where one party cannot be physically present due to certain circumstances, such as illness or being out of state, an absentee application can be obtained.
Cousin Marriages
Colorado allows first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.
Marriage Blood Test
Colorado does not require couples to undergo a blood test before getting married.
Name Change After Marriage
Getting a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you’ll need to follow the appropriate legal procedures.
Marriage Age Requirements
The legal age to marry without parental consent in Colorado is 18 years old. For individuals aged 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required. Applicants below 15 years of age must obtain a court order for judicial approval.
Marriage Officiants
Couples in Colorado can solemnize their own marriage, and other authorized officials include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy. However, it’s important to note that friends or relatives cannot sign as officiants on the marriage certificate.
Marriage Witnesses
Unlike some states, Colorado does not require witnesses for your marriage ceremony. However, some officiants may choose to have witnesses present.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
A marriage license in Colorado is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance.
Returning the Completed Marriage Certificate
After the wedding ceremony, the completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office for recording within 63 days. Failure to do so may result in late fees.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Colorado is a straightforward process that ensures your marriage is recognized by law. By adhering to the outlined requirements and procedures, you can confidently embark on this exciting chapter of your life together.
FAQs
- Can we apply for a marriage license online?No, both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married?No, there is no waiting period in Colorado.
- Can out-of-state couples marry in Colorado?Yes, Colorado does not require residency for obtaining a marriage license.
- Can a friend officiate our wedding ceremony?No, only authorized officials can officiate marriages in Colorado.
- What happens if we don’t return the completed marriage certificate on time?Late fees may apply if the completed marriage certificate is not returned within 63 days.
