Getting married in Oklahoma is an exciting step, and securing your marriage license is the first official step in the process. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and procedures to obtain your Oklahoma marriage license smoothly and efficiently.
What are the Requirements for a Marriage License in Oklahoma?
Before you even think about heading to the courthouse, you need to meet several requirements. These are crucial, so make sure you have everything in order:
- Identification: Both applicants must present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport. No exceptions are made to this rule.
- Age: Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If one or both applicants are under 18, parental or guardian consent is required, and additional legal steps may be necessary.
- Blood Test: Oklahoma does not require a blood test for marriage licenses.
- Waiting Period: There is no waiting period in Oklahoma between applying for and receiving your marriage license. You can get married immediately after receiving it.
- Fees: There's a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license; the exact amount varies by county, so it's best to check with your local county clerk's office.
- Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been previously married, they must provide documentation showing the termination of the previous marriage(s) – this could be a divorce decree or a death certificate.
Where Can I Get a Marriage License in Oklahoma?
Marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk's office in the county where at least one of the applicants resides. You cannot obtain a license from just any county; it must be the county where you live. Finding the contact information for your county clerk's office is easily done via an online search.
What Information Will I Need to Provide?
When applying for your Oklahoma marriage license, you'll need to provide the following information for both applicants:
- Full legal names (including any previous names)
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers
- Current addresses
- Racial identification (voluntary)
- Information about previous marriages (if applicable)
How Long is an Oklahoma Marriage License Valid For?
An Oklahoma marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. If you don't get married within that timeframe, you'll need to apply for a new license.
What Happens After I Get My Marriage License?
Once you have your marriage license, you must have your ceremony performed by an authorized officiant within the 30-day validity period. After the ceremony, your officiant will complete the license and return it to the issuing County Clerk's office. This officially records your marriage in the state of Oklahoma.
Can I Apply for a Marriage License Online in Oklahoma?
No, Oklahoma does not offer online applications for marriage licenses. You must appear in person at the County Clerk's office with the required documentation.
What if I Need to Change Something on My Marriage License Application?
If you need to make corrections to your application, you must contact the County Clerk's office immediately. They will guide you through the necessary steps to rectify any errors.
What if I'm Not a US Citizen?
If either applicant is not a U.S. citizen, additional documentation may be required. Contact your local County Clerk's office for specific instructions and requirements. This will vary depending on the applicant's immigration status. It’s crucial to confirm this well in advance of your planned application date.
This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the process of obtaining a marriage license in Oklahoma. Remember to always contact your local County Clerk's office directly for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements for your county. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
