Planning your dream wedding in the Garden State? Amidst all the excitement of choosing venues, tasting cakes, and sending out invitations, it's easy to overlook one crucial detail: the marriage license. In New Jersey, you can't simply say "I do" and be legally married. Obtaining a marriage license is a necessary step, and understanding the process beforehand can save you time, stress, and potential headaches. The application process involves specific requirements, paperwork, and waiting periods that couples must navigate carefully to ensure their marriage is legally recognized.
Getting married is a significant life event, and ensuring your union is legally sound provides stability and security for your future together. A valid marriage license grants you certain rights and protections as a couple, impacting everything from healthcare decisions to property ownership. Failing to obtain a proper license can lead to legal complications down the line, so it's best to be informed and prepared before you walk down the aisle. This guide provides everything you need to know about getting a marriage license in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions About NJ Marriage Licenses
What documents do I need to apply for a marriage license in NJ?
To apply for a marriage license in New Jersey, both applicants must provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and your social security number. You also need to provide the names, birthplaces, and birth dates of your parents, including mothers' maiden names. Divorced applicants must furnish proof of how and when any prior marriages ended.
To elaborate, acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, passport, or state-issued non-driver ID. Proof of residency can be established using a driver's license, utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement showing your current address. If either applicant is divorced, a certified copy of the divorce decree or civil annulment is required. Widowed applicants need to present a certified copy of the death certificate of the deceased spouse. Remember that all documents must be originals or certified copies; photocopies are generally not accepted. Furthermore, if any document is not in English, it must be accompanied by a certified translation. Contact the local registrar's office in the municipality where you intend to marry for the most up-to-date and specific requirements, as they may vary slightly.How long is a New Jersey marriage license valid?
A marriage license in New Jersey is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means you must get married within that 30-day window, or the license will expire, and you will need to reapply and pay the required fees.
The 30-day validity period is strictly enforced. Consider this timeline when planning your wedding. It's best to apply for the license with enough lead time to allow for the mandatory 72-hour waiting period (described below) before the license becomes active and the 30-day period begins, but not so early that it expires before your wedding date. Carefully coordinate the application timeline with your chosen wedding date to avoid any last-minute complications or the need to reapply. The 72-hour waiting period begins once your application is processed by the local registrar. This means that after you and your future spouse have both applied and provided all the necessary documentation, you must wait three full days before the license is actually issued and the 30-day clock starts ticking. This waiting period is in place to allow couples time to reflect on their decision.Where in NJ can I apply for a marriage license?
You can apply for a marriage license in the municipality where either you or your future spouse resides. If neither of you are New Jersey residents, you must apply in the municipality where the marriage ceremony will take place.
Applying for a marriage license in New Jersey is not a statewide process; it's handled at the local level by the municipal clerk in each town or city. The application needs to be made in person at the local registrar's office in the municipality of residence. Therefore, if one partner lives in Newark and the other lives in Jersey City, the application can be made in either Newark or Jersey City. However, if both partners live outside of New Jersey but plan to get married in Cape May, they must apply for the license in Cape May. It is essential to call the local registrar's office in advance to confirm their hours of operation and any specific requirements they may have, such as needing an appointment. This can save you time and ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready when you apply. Each municipality has its local registrar who will be responsible for processing your application and issuing the marriage license after the mandatory 72-hour waiting period.What are the residency requirements for getting married in NJ?
New Jersey does not have a residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license. You do not need to be a resident of New Jersey, or even a U.S. citizen, to apply for a marriage license within the state. The only requirement is that you intend to marry in New Jersey.
Because there is no residency requirement, couples from out of state or from other countries can easily marry in New Jersey. The application process is the same for both residents and non-residents: both applicants must appear in person at the issuing authority in the municipality where the marriage will take place to complete the application. You will need to provide valid photo identification and proof of your social security number (if you have one). Keep in mind that while you can apply for a marriage license in any New Jersey municipality, the license is only valid for use within the state of New Jersey. If you are from out-of-state, you cannot use a New Jersey marriage license to legally marry in another state. If neither applicant is a resident of New Jersey, the application must be made in the municipality where the marriage ceremony will be performed.What is the fee for a marriage license in New Jersey?
The fee for a marriage license in New Jersey is $28. This fee is consistent across all municipalities in the state and is payable to the local issuing authority where you apply.
While the $28 fee is standard, it's wise to confirm acceptable payment methods with the specific municipality where you're applying. Most offices accept cash, money orders, or certified checks. Some may also accept credit or debit cards, but this can vary. It's best to call ahead or check the municipality's website to avoid any last-minute surprises regarding payment. Keep in mind that the fee covers the application processing and the issuance of the license itself. If you require certified copies of your marriage certificate after the ceremony, there will be an additional fee per copy, typically around $10-$25. Inquire about the cost of certified copies when you apply for your license so you can plan accordingly, especially if you anticipate needing multiple copies for legal or administrative purposes.Is there a waiting period after applying for a marriage license?
Yes, in New Jersey, there is a mandatory 72-hour (three calendar day) waiting period after applying for a marriage license before the license can be issued. This waiting period begins the day *after* you submit your application.
This waiting period is designed to provide couples with a cooling-off period to ensure they are certain about their decision to marry. It exists to prevent impulsive marriages and allows for second thoughts, if necessary. Importantly, this waiting period applies to both residents of New Jersey and those coming from out of state to get married in New Jersey. However, there is a provision for waiving this 72-hour waiting period in cases of emergency or other extraordinary circumstances. To request a waiver, you must petition a judge of the Superior Court in the county where the marriage license application was made. The judge will consider the specific facts of your case to determine whether a waiver is justified. Be aware that obtaining a waiver is not guaranteed and requires demonstrating a compelling reason.Do I need a blood test to get married in NJ?
No, you do not need a blood test to get married in New Jersey. The requirement for blood tests before marriage was eliminated in New Jersey in 2007.
Prior to 2007, New Jersey required couples to undergo blood tests for diseases like syphilis. This requirement was intended to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. However, due to the rarity of detecting such diseases through premarital testing and the associated costs and inconvenience, the law was repealed. Now, couples applying for a marriage license in New Jersey are no longer required to provide proof of blood tests. To obtain a marriage license in New Jersey, both applicants must appear in person at the municipal registrar in the municipality where either applicant resides. If neither applicant is a New Jersey resident, the application must be made in the municipality where the marriage ceremony will be performed. You will need to provide proof of identity (like a driver's license or passport), proof of residency (if applicable), and your social security numbers. There is a 72-hour waiting period between applying for the license and it being issued, though this can sometimes be waived by a court order. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere in New Jersey.Getting your marriage license is one of those essential steps on the road to "I do," and hopefully this guide has made the process a little less daunting! We're so glad we could help you navigate the paperwork. Wishing you all the best as you plan your big day and start your married life together. And remember, if you have any more questions about New Jersey weddings or anything else, please come back and visit us anytime!