Dreaming of saying "I do" amidst the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty? Colorado has become a sought-after destination for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable wedding experience. But before you start envisioning your mountaintop ceremony or rustic barn reception, understanding the legal requirements and practical steps involved in getting married in Colorado is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey to "happily ever after."
Navigating the legalities of marriage can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when planning a destination wedding. Understanding Colorado's specific requirements for obtaining a marriage license, officiating your ceremony, and ensuring your marriage is legally recognized is crucial. This guide aims to simplify the process, providing you with all the information you need to confidently plan your special day in the Centennial State, making sure you don't miss any important deadlines or paperwork.
What are the key steps to getting married in Colorado?
Do I need witnesses to get married in Colorado?
No, you do not need witnesses to get married in Colorado. Colorado is one of the few states that does not require witnesses to be present at your wedding ceremony or to sign your marriage license.
While Colorado law doesn't mandate witnesses, you still need to fulfill other requirements to legally get married. You and your partner must obtain a marriage license from any county clerk in Colorado. To get the license, both of you will need to provide valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. There is typically a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license, and the amount can vary slightly from county to county. After the ceremony, you and your officiant (if you have one) will sign the marriage license. Then, it is your responsibility to return the signed license to the county clerk's office where you obtained it. Once the clerk's office records the license, your marriage is legally recognized by the state of Colorado. While witnesses aren't required, some couples still choose to have them present for sentimental reasons and to act as symbolic observers of their commitment.Can I get married in Colorado if I'm not a resident?
Yes, you can absolutely get married in Colorado even if you are not a resident. Colorado does not have residency requirements for marriage licenses, meaning that anyone, regardless of their state or country of residence, can legally marry within the state as long as they meet the other eligibility requirements.
To obtain a marriage license in Colorado, you and your partner must both be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if younger, with judicial approval in some cases). You'll both need to appear in person at any County Clerk and Recorder's office in Colorado and present valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID. You will be asked to complete an application with information like your names, addresses, dates and places of birth, and parents' names (including mothers' maiden names). You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to marry in Colorado. Once you receive your marriage license, you can get married anywhere in Colorado. There is no waiting period, so you can marry the same day you receive the license. The license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance. After the ceremony, the officiant (the person performing the ceremony) must complete the marriage certificate and return it to the County Clerk and Recorder's office where the license was issued. After that, you will receive a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which serves as proof of your marriage.What is the waiting period after applying for a marriage license in Colorado?
There is no waiting period in Colorado after applying for a marriage license. You can get married the same day you receive your license, provided you have it in hand and meet all other requirements.
Once you receive your marriage license from a County Clerk in Colorado, you are immediately free to proceed with your marriage ceremony. Unlike some states that impose a waiting period (often a few days), Colorado allows couples to marry as soon as they have the license. However, it's critical to remember that the license does expire. A Colorado marriage license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance, meaning you must get married within that timeframe. Failing to do so will render the license void, and you'll need to apply and pay for a new one. Careful planning is recommended to ensure you obtain the license with enough time to spare before your planned wedding date, while also making sure you don't apply too early and risk the license expiring. Coordinate with your officiant and any other involved parties to guarantee everyone is available within that 35-day window to witness and sign the license after the ceremony, as proper signatures are crucial for legally recording your marriage.Are blood tests required to get married in Colorado?
No, blood tests are not required to obtain a marriage license in Colorado. Colorado law eliminated the requirement for blood tests for marriage license applicants many years ago.
Prior to the change in law, some states required blood tests to screen for conditions like syphilis, rubella (German measles), and other communicable diseases. The purpose was to inform couples about potential health risks and encourage them to seek treatment if necessary, as well as to potentially prevent the transmission of certain diseases to future children. However, due to advances in medical testing and the availability of accessible and affordable healthcare, mandatory blood tests for marriage licenses were deemed no longer necessary. Individuals are now encouraged to consult with their physicians for routine health screenings and family planning advice, regardless of their marital status. The decision of whether or not to get tested is left to the individual couple.So there you have it! You're now armed with the knowledge to make your Colorado wedding dreams a reality. We hope this guide has been helpful and inspiring. Best of luck with your planning, and congratulations on your upcoming nuptials! Feel free to swing by again anytime you need more tips and tricks for celebrating love in the Centennial State.