Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials! You've taken the first step by obtaining your marriage license. But now, you might be wondering, "What do I do with a marriage license?" This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you're fully informed and prepared for your special day.
Understanding Your Marriage License
Before we dive into what to do with a marriage license, let's ensure you understand what it is. A marriage license is a legal document issued by a government authority, typically a county clerk's office, that allows two people to get married. It serves as proof that you have the legal right to marry and is valid for a specific period, usually 30 to 90 days, depending on your state's laws.
What to Do with a Marriage License: Before the Wedding
1. Keep it Safe
Your marriage license is a crucial document, so treat it as such. Keep it in a safe place, away from moisture, extreme temperatures, and potential damage. You might consider storing it with other important documents, like your birth certificate or passport.
2. Check the Details
Double-check that all the information on your marriage license is accurate. This includes your full name, date of birth, address, and social security number (if applicable). If there are any errors, contact the issuing office immediately to have them corrected.
3. Plan Ahead
Before your wedding, make sure you know where your marriage license is. You'll need to bring it to your ceremony, along with a valid form of identification. If you're having a destination wedding or a justice of the peace ceremony, you might need to have your license mailed to you. Plan ahead to ensure it arrives in time.
What to Do with a Marriage License: During the Wedding
On your wedding day, your officiant will need to see your marriage license. They will complete the ceremony, sign the license, and then return it to you. It's a good idea to designate a responsible person, such as a bridesmaid or groomsman, to keep track of the license throughout the day.
What to Do with a Marriage License: After the Wedding
1. Return the License
After your wedding, you'll need to return your marriage license to the issuing office. This is typically done within a certain time frame, usually 10 to 30 days after the ceremony. Some offices may require an appointment, so check their website or give them a call to confirm.
2. Receive Your Marriage Certificate
Once your marriage license has been returned and recorded, you'll receive your official marriage certificate. This is the legal document that proves you're married. You can use it to update your last name, apply for benefits, or change your address. It's a good idea to keep this document in a safe place, along with your other important papers.
3. Keep a Copy for Your Records
It's a good idea to keep a copy of your marriage license and certificate for your records. You never know when you might need to prove your marital status, so it's best to be prepared. You can keep these documents in a safe deposit box, a fireproof safe, or a secure digital storage system.
What If You Lose Your Marriage License?
If you lose your marriage license before returning it, don't panic. You can contact the issuing office to request a replacement. There may be a fee involved, so be prepared for that. If you've already returned your license and received your marriage certificate, you should be fine. However, if you need to prove your marital status, you might need to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
FAQs
- Do I need to bring my marriage license to my wedding rehearsal? No, you only need to bring it on your wedding day.
- Can I laminate my marriage license? No, laminating can damage the document and make it unreadable. Instead, consider using a protective sleeve or folder.
- What if I change my mind and don't want to get married? If you change your mind before the ceremony, you can simply return the marriage license to the issuing office. Once the ceremony has taken place, the license is no longer valid, and you'll need to go through the process again if you change your mind.
Getting married is an exciting time, and understanding what to do with a marriage license can help ensure your special day goes smoothly. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to a happy, legally recognized union.
