Congratulations on your decision to tie the knot! As you start planning your wedding, some legal requirements may seem overwhelming, but they’re crucial for a smooth transition into married life. One such aspect is understanding the difference between a marriage license vs. marriage certificate. If legal jargon makes your head spin, don’t worry – we’re here to simplify everything.
A marriage license is like the golden ticket that permits you to legally marry your beloved. Think of it as the green light from the government to say, “Yes, you two can officially tie the knot!”
It’s required for every couple to get a marriage license before the ceremony takes place (no matter which state you’re in). Typically, this is obtained through a 10-15 minute application, done in-person or online, depending on your county’s requirements.
Once you’ve been issued your marriage license, you’ll need to share it with the officiant performing your marriage. After you’ve exchanged vows in your ceremony, it’s time to obtain the official documentation of your marriage license versus the marriage certificate. Your officiant will sign your marriage license, which certifies that the ceremony took place. The marriage certificate serves as proof that you’re officially married, attesting that the ceremony was performed legally.
Oftentimes, when your officiant signs the marriage license, it will become the marriage certificate on the same piece of paper. If this is not the case in your county, then your officiant will need to submit the marriage license to the local clerk’s office, in which afterwards they will give you your marriage certificate.
Validity:
Required Documentation:
Witnesses:
Issuance:
Ceremony Required:
Have additional questions about the difference between a marriage license and marriage certificate? Let’s address common questions that couples often have about these essential documents:
Familiarize yourself with these legalities, and you can ensure that your marriage is not only a joyous occasion but also legally binding and recognized.
Yes, you definitely can! We’ve processed thousands of marriage licenses for couples all around the world, making sure that the marriage license is issued within 24 hours of applying. We’ve made the process for getting approved as easy as possible, guaranteeing that your marriage is 100% legal and recognized in all 50 states through our strict application protocol.
The marriage license issued by the government is only valid for 32 days, so it’s best to apply within 2-3 weeks before your planned ceremony date. The process of scheduling, filling out the marriage license application, and having your ceremony is done entirely online – allowing you to get both the marriage license and marriage certificate from the comfort of your own home.
You’ll be paired up with one of our US recognized officiants, who will ensure the legal requirements of your ceremony are met. The ceremony will take place over a video call, and typically lasts about 15 minutes – you also have the ability to customize it however you’d like. The marriage certificate will be issued within the same day as your ceremony, where you’ll receive a digital copy of the marriage certificate immediately after your ceremony, and a physical copy will arrive in the mail within 3-7 business days. If you’d like to explore the option of online marriage, take this quiz to find out if it’s a good fit for you.
Now you understand the basics of marriage certificates and licenses. With this knowledge, you’re ready for the next part of your life together as a married couple. While obtaining your marriage license and certificate may seem like a hurdle, these documents hold significant meaning and importance.
Go ahead and celebrate your love, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure that your marriage is a legally recognized bond that will stand the test of time.
Get married online with Distant Weddings. We’ll guide you step by step through our 3-step process, ensuring the process is simple & easy.