What Legal Documents Are Needed to Get Married?

Make sure you have the necessary paperwork to make your marriage official

By Suzie Faloon

Photo by iStockphoto.com

A bridal couple must have a license when they are married by a judge, justice of the peace, minister, notary public, rabbi or priest. You must contact your municipal office for the correct legal documents needed to attain your marriage license.

Marriage License

A couple must have a marriage license to present to the officiant. The license must be made out by a county or municipal clerk, signed by the officiant and returned to the clerk to be filed with the state bureau of records. Check with your county or municipality for details on where and how to obtain a marriage certificate in your area.

Identification

In many states, you must have a legal, up-to-date driver's license or a current photo ID when you apply for your marriage license.

Birth Certificate

Some states also require you to have a legal copy of your individual birth certificates when you file your intentions to be married. A legal birth certificate is certified with the municipal seal on it.

Citizenship

If you were born in another country, you must produce proof of citizenship to be able to marry a U.S. citizen. Bring the official documents of naturalization, temporary residence identification or U.S. citizenship with you to the clerk's office when applying for the marriage license.

Previous Marriage

Bring proof that a previous marriage has been legally dissolved. The clerk has to see your divorce or annulment papers or the death certificate of your previous spouse in order for you to be eligible to marry again.