Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Marriage License in Mississippi: A Step-by-Step Guide
Get all the information you need to apply for a marriage license in Mississippi, including requirements and fees. Start your journey to happily ever after!
Marriage is a beautiful union between two individuals who are in love and want to spend their lives together. However, before tying the knot, couples need to obtain a marriage license to make their union legal. In Mississippi, obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward process that involves following certain requirements and procedures.
Firstly, couples must be at least 21 years old or have parental consent if they are under 21. They must also provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID. Additionally, couples must bring their social security cards or an equivalent form of identification that shows their social security number.
It is important to note that Mississippi does not require couples to undergo blood tests or physical examinations before getting a marriage license. However, couples must fill out a marriage license application and pay a fee of $22.00. The fee can be paid in cash or by credit card, and it is non-refundable.
After filling out the application and paying the fee, couples must wait three days before their marriage license is issued. This waiting period is mandated by Mississippi law, and there are no exceptions to it.
Once the waiting period is over, couples can pick up their marriage license from the county clerk's office where they applied. The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, meaning that couples must get married within this timeframe. If they do not, they will need to apply for a new marriage license.
Mississippi also allows couples to get married by a justice of the peace or a member of the clergy. However, if couples choose to have a religious wedding ceremony, they must also obtain a marriage certificate from the church or religious organization where they got married.
It is worth noting that Mississippi law prohibits same-sex marriage. However, in 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is legal in all states, including Mississippi. As a result, same-sex couples can now obtain a marriage license and get married in Mississippi.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi is a simple process that requires couples to follow certain requirements and procedures. By fulfilling these requirements and waiting for their license to be issued, couples can legally tie the knot and start their journey as a married couple.
Introduction
Getting a marriage license is an important step in the process of getting married. In Mississippi, obtaining a marriage license may seem daunting, but it is a relatively straightforward process. This article will guide you through the steps to obtain a marriage license in Mississippi.Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a marriage license in Mississippi, it is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. Applicants must be at least 21 years old or have parental consent if under 21. Additionally, applicants cannot be currently married or closely related by blood.Identification documents
When applying for a marriage license, identification documents are required. The primary forms of identification are driver's licenses, state-issued identification cards, or passports. If these documents are unavailable, applicants may bring two other forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or social security card.Fees and Waiting Period
In Mississippi, the marriage license fee varies depending on the county, but it typically ranges from $21 to $35. After paying the fee, there is a waiting period of three days before the marriage license can be issued. However, this waiting period can be waived for certain circumstances, such as military personnel on active duty.Application Process
The application process for obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi can be completed in person at the circuit clerk's office in the county where either applicant resides. Both parties must be present when applying for the license.Completing the Application
The application form requires basic information, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, and dates of birth. Applicants must also provide information about previous marriages, including the date of divorce or death. Once the application is complete, both parties must sign it.Medical Examinations
In Mississippi, there are no medical examinations or blood tests required to obtain a marriage license.Issuance of Marriage License
After the three-day waiting period has passed, the marriage license will be issued. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. If the wedding ceremony does not take place within 30 days, the license will expire, and the process must be repeated.Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi is a relatively simple process. As long as both parties meet the eligibility criteria, have the required identification documents, and pay the fee, the application can be completed quickly. Although there is a three-day waiting period, this can be waived under certain circumstances. Once the marriage license is issued, the couple has 30 days to have their wedding ceremony before the license expires.Marriage License in Mississippi: What You Need to Know
If you're planning to get married in Mississippi, you'll need to obtain a marriage license. Here are some important things to know about the application process, age requirements, waiting period, validity of the license, blood test requirements, residency requirements, proxy marriage, same-sex marriage, name change, and exceptions.
Application Process
The first step in obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi is to fill out an application form. This can be done in-person at the county courthouse or online through the State Vital Records office. You'll need to provide identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and payment of fees. The application fee varies by county, but typically ranges from $20 to $50.
Age Requirements
In Mississippi, the minimum age to obtain a marriage license is 21 years old. If either party is under 21, they must have parental consent. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the minor to the courthouse to sign the consent form.
Waiting Period
After submitting the application, there is a three-day waiting period before the marriage license can be issued in Mississippi. This waiting period can be waived if both parties attend premarital counseling with a licensed counselor or member of the clergy.
Validity of the License
Once the marriage license is issued, it is valid for a period of 90 days in Mississippi. This means that the wedding ceremony must take place within 90 days of the license being issued. After 90 days, the license expires and a new one must be obtained.
Blood Test Requirements
Mississippi does not require a blood test for marriage license application. This means that you do not need to provide proof of blood type or any other medical information.
Residency Requirements
There are no residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi. This means that you do not have to be a resident of the state to apply for a marriage license. However, you must obtain the license in the county where the wedding ceremony will take place.
Proxy Marriage
Mississippi does not recognize proxy marriages, which is when one party is not physically present during the ceremony. Both parties must be present and participate in the ceremony in order for the marriage to be valid.
Same-Sex Marriage
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Mississippi since 2015. This means that same-sex couples have the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual couples when it comes to obtaining a marriage license and getting married.
Name Change
After marriage, a name change can be made on official documents such as a driver's license or social security card by showing the marriage certificate. However, it is important to note that changing your name is optional and not required by law.
Exceptions
If both parties are members of the armed forces and are not physically present in Mississippi, they may be exempt from some of the requirements for obtaining a marriage license. They can apply for a license through the mail and may be able to waive the waiting period.
Overall, obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi is a relatively straightforward process. By knowing the requirements and following the application process, you can ensure that your wedding day goes smoothly and legally.
Marriage License in Mississippi: Pros and Cons
Introduction
Getting married is an exciting milestone in life, but before you can say I do, you need to obtain a marriage license. In Mississippi, there are certain procedures that couples must follow to obtain a marriage license. This article will discuss the pros and cons of getting a marriage license in Mississippi.
Pros of Marriage License in Mississippi
- Legal recognition: A marriage license is a legal document that provides formal recognition of your marriage in the state of Mississippi. This ensures that your marriage is recognized by law.
- Protection of interests: A marriage license helps protect the interests of both parties in case of any disputes or legal issues in the future.
- Name change: If you plan on changing your last name after marriage, having a marriage license makes the process easier.
- Marriage ceremony: A marriage license is required to have a wedding ceremony in Mississippi.
Cons of Marriage License in Mississippi
- Cost: Obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi can be expensive, with fees ranging from $22 to $57 depending on the county.
- Waiting period: There is a 3-day waiting period after obtaining a marriage license before you can legally get married in Mississippi.
- Age restrictions: Mississippi has age restrictions for obtaining a marriage license. The minimum age to get a license is 21 without parental consent, and 17 with parental consent.
- Divorce requirements: If you want to get divorced in Mississippi, you must have a marriage license first.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi is an important step in getting married. While there are some downsides to the process, the pros generally outweigh the cons. Ultimately, having a legal document that recognizes your marriage provides peace of mind and protection for both parties involved.
| Keywords | Description |
|---|---|
| Marriage License | A legal document that provides formal recognition of a marriage |
| Mississippi | A state in the southern United States |
| Legal recognition | The act of formally recognizing something as legally valid or binding |
| Name change | The act of changing one's name after marriage |
| Waiting period | The time period between obtaining a marriage license and legally getting married |
| Divorce requirements | The requirements for getting a divorce in Mississippi |
Closing Message for Blog Visitors About Marriage License in MS
Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on getting a marriage license in Mississippi. We hope that we have provided you with all the necessary information and resources to make the process as smooth as possible.
Remember, obtaining a marriage license is an important aspect of getting married in Mississippi, and it is essential that you follow the state's guidelines and requirements to ensure that your marriage is recognized legally.
We encourage you to take the time to review the information we have provided, and to reach out to your local county clerk's office if you have any additional questions or concerns. They will be more than happy to assist you with your application and provide you with guidance throughout the process.
As you embark on this exciting journey towards marriage, we want to remind you that the process may seem overwhelming at times, but it is important to stay organized and focused to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
It is also important to remember that getting married is not just about obtaining a piece of paper - it is about making a commitment to your partner and building a life together. As you plan your wedding and prepare for your marriage, remember to prioritize communication, respect, and compromise in your relationship.
We hope that our guide has been helpful to you, and we wish you all the best as you begin this new chapter in your life. Congratulations on your engagement, and we hope that your marriage is filled with love, happiness, and adventure!
Finally, we would like to remind you that marriage is a legal contract, and it is important that you understand the terms and conditions of your marriage license before signing it. If you have any questions or concerns about the legal implications of marriage, we recommend seeking out the advice of a lawyer.
Thank you again for visiting our blog, and we wish you all the best on your journey towards marriage!
People Also Ask About Marriage License in MS
What is a marriage license?
A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married. This document is issued by the county clerk or vital records office in the state where the couple intends to get married.
Where can I obtain a marriage license in Mississippi?
You can obtain a marriage license from any county clerk's office in Mississippi. Both parties must apply together in person.
What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in Mississippi?
The following are the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Mississippi:
- Both parties must be at least 21 years of age or have parental consent if under 21 years old.
- Both parties must provide a valid government-issued ID.
- Both parties must provide their Social Security numbers.
- Both parties must provide proof of divorce or death certificate if previously married.
How long is a marriage license valid in Mississippi?
A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued in Mississippi. The couple must get married within this time frame, or they will need to apply for a new marriage license.
How much does a marriage license cost in Mississippi?
The cost of a marriage license varies by county in Mississippi. It typically ranges from $22 to $35. Some counties may charge an additional fee for a certified copy of the marriage license.
Can I get married in Mississippi if I am from another state or country?
Yes, you can get married in Mississippi if you are from another state or country. However, you will need to obtain a marriage license from a Mississippi county clerk's office and meet the state's requirements for getting married.
Do I need a blood test to get a marriage license in Mississippi?
No, Mississippi does not require a blood test to obtain a marriage license.