All You Need to Know About Obtaining a South Carolina Marriage License: Requirements and Process
Get married in South Carolina! Learn about the marriage license process, requirements, and fees for couples looking to tie the knot in this beautiful state.
Getting married is an exciting and joyous occasion for many couples. However, before you can officially tie the knot, there are certain legal requirements that need to be met. One of the most important requirements is obtaining a marriage license. In South Carolina, this process can be straightforward if you know what to expect and where to go. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a South Carolina marriage license, including the necessary documents, fees, and waiting periods.
The first step in obtaining a South Carolina marriage license is to gather all the required documents. Both parties must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. If either party has been previously married, they must also provide a certified copy of their divorce decree or death certificate of their former spouse. It's important to note that South Carolina does not require blood tests or medical examinations to obtain a marriage license.
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for your marriage license at any South Carolina probate court. It's advisable to apply for your license at least a month before your wedding date to allow time for processing. The fee for a South Carolina marriage license varies by county but typically ranges from $30-$100. It's important to bring cash or a check, as credit cards are not accepted.
After submitting your application and paying the fee, there is a 24-hour waiting period before your marriage license is issued. This waiting period is waived for active military personnel. Once your license is issued, it is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
It's important to note that South Carolina has some unique marriage laws that couples should be aware of. For example, same-sex marriages have been legal in South Carolina since 2014, and there are no residency requirements to obtain a marriage license. Additionally, South Carolina is one of the few states that still allows for common-law marriages.
Another important aspect of obtaining a South Carolina marriage license is choosing an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony. In South Carolina, anyone who is ordained or licensed by a religious organization can perform a wedding ceremony. Additionally, judges, notaries public, and other public officials are also authorized to perform weddings.
Before the wedding ceremony can take place, both parties must sign the marriage license in the presence of the officiant and two witnesses. The officiant is then responsible for returning the signed license to the probate court within 15 days of the ceremony. Once the court receives the license, it will be recorded and a certified copy will be issued to the newlyweds.
Obtaining a South Carolina marriage license may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a simple and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are legally prepared to begin your new life together as a married couple.
It's important to remember that a marriage license is just the first step in a lifetime commitment. Marriage requires hard work, dedication, and compromise from both partners. However, with love and respect, a happy and fulfilling future awaits.
Introduction
Marriage is a significant event in anyone's life. To make it official, you need to obtain a marriage license. In South Carolina, the process of acquiring a marriage license is simple, but there are specific requirements that both parties must meet. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a South Carolina marriage license.
Eligibility Requirements
Before you can apply for a marriage license in South Carolina, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You and your partner must be at least 18 years old. If one or both of you are below 18 years old, you need parental consent. You should also not be related to each other by blood closer than second cousins.
How to Apply for a Marriage License
To apply for a marriage license in South Carolina, you need to visit the office of the probate court in the county where you plan to get married. Both you and your partner must be present when applying for the license. You will be required to fill out an application form and provide some necessary information like your name, age, address, and social security number.
Documents Required
When applying for a marriage license in South Carolina, you need to provide some documents. These include a valid photo identification document, such as a driver's license or passport, and proof of social security number. If you have been previously married, you must provide documentation that the marriage was legally dissolved, either through divorce or death of your former spouse.
Waiting Period
South Carolina has no waiting period for obtaining a marriage license. Once you complete the application process and receive the license, you can get married immediately. However, the license is only valid for sixty days from the date of issuance.
Marriage License Fee
To obtain a marriage license in South Carolina, you will be required to pay a fee. The fee varies from county to county, but it is usually between $30 and $100. You can pay the fee using cash, credit card, or money order.
Who Can Officiate Your Wedding?
In South Carolina, there are several people authorized to officiate your wedding. These include ministers of any religious denomination, judges, notaries public, and other authorized officials. You can also have a friend or family member perform the ceremony if they become ordained online. They must present a copy of their ordination certificate to the probate court before the wedding.
After the Wedding
After your wedding, the person who officiated the ceremony will fill out the marriage license and return it to the probate court. The license will then be recorded, and a copy will be mailed to you. You will need to keep this copy as proof of your marriage.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina is a straightforward process, but it requires that you meet specific eligibility requirements and provide necessary documentation. The waiting period is short, and the fees are reasonable. Once you have obtained your license, you can have your wedding ceremony performed by an authorized individual or a friend or family member who has become ordained online. After the wedding, the license will be recorded, and you will receive a copy for your records.
South Carolina marriage license requirements are straightforward and easy to follow. To get married in the state, both parties must be at least 18 years old and apply for a marriage license at the probate court in the county where the marriage will take place. It is important to note that minors who are 16 or 17 years old can get married in South Carolina with the consent of a parent or legal guardian, while minors who are 15 years old or younger can only get married with a court order.To apply for a marriage license in South Carolina, both parties must bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, and their social security number. Once the application is approved, there is no waiting period for obtaining a marriage license in the state. The couple can get married right away.The fee for a marriage license in South Carolina varies by county but typically ranges between $40 and $100. Marriage licenses in the state are valid for 90 days from the date of issue and can only be used within the state. Once the marriage is performed, the marriage license is recorded in the official records of the county where the license was obtained.In South Carolina, judges, ministers, and notaries public can perform weddings. If a marriage in the state is deemed void or invalid, an annulment can be granted. If the couple wants to dissolve their marriage, they must file for divorce in family court.It is worth noting that same-sex marriage has been legal in South Carolina since a federal court ruling in 2014 overturned the state's ban on same-sex marriage. So, all couples, regardless of gender, have the same rights and privileges when it comes to getting married in the state.In conclusion, South Carolina marriage license requirements are simple and easy to understand. Couples must meet certain age requirements and provide necessary documents to obtain a marriage license. There is no waiting period, and the fees associated with obtaining a marriage license vary by county. Once the marriage is performed, the license is recorded in the official records of the county where it was obtained. South Carolina is an inclusive state, where all couples have the right to get married and enjoy the same rights and privileges.South Carolina Marriage License: Pros and Cons
Overview of South Carolina Marriage License
A marriage license is a legal document that permits two individuals to get married. In South Carolina, couples need to obtain a marriage license before their wedding ceremony. The state has certain requirements that must be met by the couple before they can receive the license.
Requirements for South Carolina Marriage License
Before applying for a marriage license in South Carolina, the couple must meet the following requirements:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if under 18.
- Both parties must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.
- The couple must not be related by blood or adoption.
- Both parties must be physically present when applying for the license.
Pros of South Carolina Marriage License
There are several benefits of obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina:
- Legal recognition: A marriage license provides legal recognition to the couple's marriage in the eyes of the law.
- Insurance benefits: Married couples may be eligible for insurance benefits through their employer or spouse's employer.
- Tax benefits: Married couples can file joint tax returns, which may result in lower taxes.
- Decision-making authority: Married couples have decision-making authority over medical and financial matters for each other.
Cons of South Carolina Marriage License
There are some disadvantages to obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina:
- Financial obligations: Married couples may be responsible for each other's debts and financial obligations.
- Divorce proceedings: Divorce proceedings can be complicated and expensive.
- Religious beliefs: Some couples may not want to obtain a marriage license due to their religious beliefs.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina has several pros and cons. Ultimately, it is up to the couple to decide whether they want to legally recognize their union through a marriage license.
| Keywords | Description |
|---|---|
| Marriage License | A legal document that permits two individuals to get married |
| South Carolina | A state located in the southeastern region of the United States |
| Requirements | The conditions that must be met in order to obtain a marriage license |
| Pros | The advantages of obtaining a marriage license |
| Cons | The disadvantages of obtaining a marriage license |
Closing Message for Visitors: Getting Your South Carolina Marriage License
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post about getting your South Carolina marriage license. We hope that the information we have provided has been helpful and informative, and that it has answered any questions you may have had about the process.
Getting a marriage license is an important step in the journey towards marriage, and it is crucial to ensure that everything is done correctly to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
As we have outlined in our post, the process of obtaining a South Carolina marriage license involves several steps, including obtaining proper identification, completing the application, and paying the necessary fees.
It is important to note that there are certain requirements that must be met in order to obtain a marriage license in South Carolina, including being at least 18 years old, not currently married, and not closely related by blood or adoption.
Additionally, it is important to allow enough time to complete the process, as there may be waiting periods or other requirements that must be met before the license can be issued.
However, with proper planning and preparation, obtaining a South Carolina marriage license can be a smooth and straightforward process.
If you have any further questions or concerns about obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina, we encourage you to reach out to your local county clerk's office for more information and guidance.
At the end of the day, we hope that this blog post has been a helpful resource for you as you prepare for your upcoming wedding. We wish you all the best as you take this exciting step forward in your lives together.
Thank you for reading!
People Also Ask About South Carolina Marriage License
What are the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina?
In order to obtain a marriage license in South Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old and present a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport. If either person has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of their previous spouse.
How much does a marriage license cost in South Carolina?
The cost of a marriage license in South Carolina varies by county, but it usually costs between $30 and $100. It is recommended that couples check with their local county probate court for specific pricing information.
Is there a waiting period before getting married after obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina?
Yes, there is a 24-hour waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina before the couple can get married. However, if both parties are over the age of 18 and complete a premarital counseling course, the waiting period can be waived.
Do we need to have a blood test before getting a marriage license in South Carolina?
No, South Carolina does not require a blood test before obtaining a marriage license.
How long is a marriage license valid in South Carolina?
A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance in South Carolina. If the marriage does not take place within 90 days, the couple will need to apply for a new marriage license.
Can we apply for a marriage license online in South Carolina?
No, currently couples cannot apply for a marriage license online in South Carolina. Both parties must appear in person at the county probate court to apply for a marriage license.