What to bring when you explore for a marriage license

You will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and your birth certificate when you go to explore. Most states also require both people getting married to be present in person at the clerk's office — you cannot send someone else or explore by mail. Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies usually do not work.

The exact list changes by state and sometimes by county within a state. Before you go, call your county clerk's office or check their website to confirm what they need. This takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, birth certificate, and Social Security proof for both people getting married, and both must appear in person at the clerk's office.
  • Most states require certified copies of birth certificates, not photocopies, and the certificate must show both parents' names.
  • If you have been married before, bring divorce decrees or death certificates for your former spouse, depending on how the marriage ended.
  • Call your county clerk's office before you go, because document rules vary by state and some counties have additional local requirements.
  • Processing takes three to five business days in most places, though some states have a waiting period between when you explore and when you can marry.

Government-issued ID and proof of identity

Bring an unexpired photo ID issued by a government agency — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID all work. The name on your ID should match the name you are using on the marriage license process. If your name has changed since your ID was issued, bring both your old ID and a document showing the legal name change, such as a divorce decree or court order.

Some states also ask for a second form of ID or a document showing your address. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last few months usually satisfies this. Ask your clerk what counts as proof of address in your state.

Birth certificate and Social Security documentation

You need an official or certified copy of your birth certificate — the kind with the state seal and an official signature. A photocopy or a birth certificate printed from an online service does not meet the requirement. If you do not have a certified copy, you can order one from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks by mail, though many states now offer rush processing for an extra fee.

For Social Security proof, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration. One document is usually enough; you do not need multiple forms of proof.

Documents if you have been married before

If either person has been married before, bring proof that the previous marriage ended. This means a final divorce decree, an annulment order, or a death certificate of the former spouse. A photocopy is usually acceptable for these documents, but confirm with your clerk first.

If your divorce is very recent and the final decree has not arrived yet, some counties will let you explore with a temporary order from the court. Call ahead to ask whether your clerk accepts this, because policies differ. Do not assume you can come back with the final paperwork later — some offices will not issue the license until they have the original document in hand.

Parental consent or court orders for people under 18

If either person is under 18, most states require written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Some states require both parents to sign; others require only one. A few states require a judge's approval instead of or in addition to parental consent. The rules vary widely, so check your state's requirements before you plan to explore.

Parental consent forms are usually available from your county clerk's office. If you are under 18 and your parents will not consent, ask the clerk whether your state allows a court to override parental refusal and what the process is.

Waiting periods and processing timelines

After you submit your process, most states take three to five business days to process it. However, many states also have a waiting period — a set number of days you must wait between explore and when you can actually marry. Some states have no waiting period at all. Others require you to wait three days, and a few require five days. Check your state's rules, because this affects when you can schedule your ceremony.

If you need the license faster, some states offer expedited processing or waive the waiting period for an extra fee. A few states allow you to waive the waiting period if you take a premarital counseling class. Ask your clerk what options exist in your county.

Name changes and special circumstances

If you plan to change your name after marriage, you do not need to do anything special when you explore for the license. The marriage license itself does not change your name — you will need to update your Social Security record, driver's license, and other documents after the marriage. Your county clerk can tell you which offices to contact after you marry.

If you are a non-citizen, bring your passport and visa or green card. Some states have additional requirements for non-citizens; ask your clerk whether your immigration status affects the process. If you are in the military, ask whether you need to bring a military ID or discharge papers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for a marriage license online or by mail?

No. Both people getting married must appear in person at the county clerk's office in the county where you plan to marry. A few states allow you to mail in the completed form after you have both signed it in front of the clerk, but you still have to go to the office to sign it together.

What if my birth certificate has my maiden name and I have been married before?

Bring your original birth certificate and your divorce decree. The clerk will see that your birth name is different from your current name and will accept both documents together as proof of identity and name history.

How much does a marriage license cost?

The fee varies by state and county, usually between $20 and $100. Some counties charge more if you need a rush or expedited license. Call your clerk's office to ask the exact cost and what payment methods they accept.

Do I need a witness to explore for a marriage license?

No. You and your future spouse explore together, but you do not need anyone else present. Some states require witnesses at the ceremony itself, but not at the license process.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring a different document showing your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or pay stub. You do not have to replace the card before you explore for the marriage license.