Marriage is a significant milestone in one's life, and planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the paperwork. In New Jersey, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in making your union official. To help you navigate the process, we've put together a comprehensive guide on the requirements and process for a New Jersey marriage application.
Understanding the Requirements
Before you start the application process, it's essential to understand the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey. Here are the key requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey.
- Residency: You do not have to be a resident of New Jersey to get married in the state.
- Identification: You will need to provide valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
- Social Security Number: You will need to provide your Social Security Number.
- Divorce or Death Certificate: If you have been previously married, you will need to provide a divorce decree or death certificate.
Required Documents
To apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport
- A Social Security Number
- A divorce decree or death certificate, if applicable
- Proof of residency, if you are a resident of New Jersey
The Application Process
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can start the application process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Obtain the application form: You can obtain the marriage license application form from the municipal clerk's office or download it from the New Jersey Department of Health website.
- Fill out the application form: Complete the application form and make sure to sign it.
- Provide required documents: Attach the required documents to the application form.
- Submit the application: Submit the application form and supporting documents to the municipal clerk's office.
- Wait for approval: The municipal clerk will review your application and verify the information.
- Pick up the marriage license: Once your application is approved, you can pick up your marriage license.
Waiting Period and Expiration
In New Jersey, there is a 72-hour waiting period before you can get married. This means that you will need to wait at least 72 hours after you pick up your marriage license before you can get married. The marriage license is valid for 6 months, so you will need to get married within that timeframe.
Getting Married
Once you have obtained your marriage license, you can get married. Here are the steps to follow:
- Find a licensed officiant: You will need to find a licensed officiant to perform the ceremony.
- Schedule the ceremony: Schedule the ceremony with the officiant and make sure to provide them with the marriage license.
- Get married: Get married and make sure the officiant completes the marriage license.
- Return the marriage license: Return the completed marriage license to the municipal clerk's office.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the requirements and process for a New Jersey marriage application. Remember to gather all the required documents, fill out the application form, and submit it to the municipal clerk's office. Don't forget to pick up your marriage license and get married within the 6-month timeframe. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
What are the requirements for a marriage license in New Jersey?
+The requirements for a marriage license in New Jersey include being at least 18 years old, providing valid identification, and providing a Social Security Number. If you have been previously married, you will need to provide a divorce decree or death certificate.
How long is the waiting period for a marriage license in New Jersey?
+The waiting period for a marriage license in New Jersey is 72 hours. This means that you will need to wait at least 72 hours after you pick up your marriage license before you can get married.
How long is the marriage license valid for?
+The marriage license is valid for 6 months. This means that you will need to get married within 6 months of picking up your marriage license.