Nebraska marriage license
Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind of excitement and love, yet it’s crucial to remember the legal essentials such as obtaining a Nebraska marriage license. This document serves as official permission for couples to marry in the Cornhusker State, making it as important as the venue or the vows.
Whether you’re local residents or out-of-state visitors, this guide aims to navigate you through the application process for a marriage license in Nebraska, ensuring your big day is as flawless as your love for each other.
What Is A Nebraska Marriage License?
A marriage license in Nebraska is a legal document that authorizes a couple to hold a marriage ceremony and legally wed within the state. This license is a stepping stone to ensuring that all the necessary legalities are addressed before you say “I do”. It’s the official start to your journey towards matrimony.
Without this license, your marriage won’t be recognized by the state, which could have implications for things like taxes, insurance, and other legal matters down the line. It’s the proof you need to show you’ve met all the state’s requirements to get married.
There’s more to a marriage license than just a formality. It’s a reflection of commitment, a document that symbolizes your readiness to enter into the binding contract of marriage. And in Nebraska, this contract comes with its own set of rules and procedures.
Each county may have slight variations in the process, but all require couples to apply in person at their local County Clerk’s office. Once issued, the license is typically valid for one year and is only valid for use within Nebraska’s borders.
How To Apply For A Nebraska Marriage License?
The application process for a Nebraska marriage license is quite straightforward. Firstly, both parties must appear in person at the County Clerk’s office. You’ll need to fill out an application form which asks for basic information like names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers.
When applying, it’s crucial to bring valid government-issued identification such as a driver’s license or passport. This helps to verify your identity and prevents any hiccups in the application process. Additionally, there may be questions regarding previous marriages, so be prepared to provide accurate information.
Don’t forget to check the specific hours of operation for your local clerk’s office. Often, they follow a standard workweek schedule, opening from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM from Monday through Friday.
As for timing, there’s no requirement for a waiting period in Nebraska. Once your application is approved and the fee is paid, you can receive your license on the same day. This makes it convenient for those who are planning a wedding on a tight schedule or for those who simply can’t wait to be married.
What Are The Requirements For A Nebraska Marriage License?
Understanding the requirements is key to a smooth application process for your Nebraska marriage license. Both parties must be at least 17 years of age, and if under 19, parental consent or court permission may be necessary.
Besides age, there’s a requirement for a valid ID to prove your identity and age. You’ll also need to know your social security numbers and have information on hand regarding any previous marriages, such as the date and manner in which they ended.
Another important requirement is the understanding that the license is only valid within the state of Nebraska. Couples should also be aware that certain venues, like the Omaha-Douglas Civic Center, may have additional requirements such as bringing witnesses for the ceremony.
Finally, while Nebraska proudly supports the rights of all individuals to marry, it’s advised to check with the ACLU of Nebraska or other resources if you feel you might face obstacles in obtaining your license due to discrimination or other civil rights concerns.
How Much Does A Nebraska Marriage License Cost?
The cost of a marriage license in Nebraska can vary by county. Generally, couples can expect to pay a fee in the range of $25 to $34, depending on where they apply. It’s always recommended to check the exact fee with the local County Clerk’s office to prepare accordingly.
This fee is often non-refundable and is required at the time of application. Payment methods can also differ, with some locations accepting cash only, while others may take credit cards or checks.
Considering the importance of this document, the cost of a marriage license is a small investment in the grand scheme of your wedding budget. It is the key to unlocking your future together as a married couple, legally recognized by the state of Nebraska.
Can You Get A Nebraska Marriage License Online?
While the digital age has made many aspects of wedding planning easier, when it comes to your marriage license, Nebraska requires a more personal touch. Currently, you cannot obtain a marriage license entirely online; you must visit the County Clerk’s office in person.
Some counties may offer the convenience of filling out a pre-application online, but ultimately, both parties must appear in person to finalize the application and receive the license. This ensures that all information is accurate and allows the clerk to verify identification documents.
What To Do After Receiving Your Nebraska Marriage License?
Once you have your Nebraska marriage license in hand, you’re almost across the finish line. The license is typically valid for one year, giving you ample time to plan and conduct your wedding ceremony.
After the ceremony, your marriage officiant will sign the license, along with any required witnesses. It is then your responsibility to return the signed license to the County Clerk’s Office for recording. This is a crucial step, as it officially documents your marriage in the state records.
Following this, you may wish to obtain a certified copy of your marriage license for your records or for legal purposes such as changing your name or updating personal documents. This can also be done through the County Clerk’s office, where your marriage was recorded.
Nebraska Marriage License Information
Obtaining a marriage license in Nebraska is a straightforward process. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you:
Requirements for a Nebraska Marriage License
- Age: Applicants must be at least 17 years old. Those aged 17 or 18 require notarized parental or guardian consent. Individuals under 17 cannot marry in Nebraska. Douglas County Clerk
- Identification: Both parties must present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. Some counties may require a certified birth certificate.
- Social Security Number: Applicants should provide their Social Security numbers. If unavailable, an affidavit must be signed.
- Previous Marriages: If previously married, provide the date the previous marriage ended. No documentation is required. Douglas County Clerk
- Parental Information: Provide full names (including mother’s maiden name) and birthplaces of both parents.
Application Process
- In-Person Application: Both applicants must appear together at a County Clerk’s office. Nebraska does not offer online applications. Douglas County Clerk
- Fee: The marriage license fee is $25. Payment methods vary by county; some accept cash, credit/debit cards, or checks. Additional fees may apply for certified copies.
- Validity: The license is valid for one year from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere within Nebraska. There is no waiting period.
County Clerk Offices and Hours
Marriage licenses are issued by County Clerk offices across Nebraska. Below are details for select counties:
Douglas County (Omaha)
- Address: 1819 Farnam Street, Room H08, Omaha, NE 68183
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Website: Douglas County Clerk Marriage Licenses
Lancaster County (Lincoln)
- Address: 555 S. 10th Street, Room 108, Lincoln, NE 68508
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Website: Lancaster County Marriage Licenses
Sarpy County (Papillion)
- Address: 1210 Golden Gate Drive, Papillion, NE 68046
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Website: Sarpy County Marriage Licenses
Madison County (Madison)
- Address: 1313 N. Main Street, Madison, NE 68748
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Website: Madison County Marriage Licenses
Platte County (Columbus)
- Address: 2610 14th Street, Columbus, NE 68601
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Website: Platte County Clerk
Additional Information
- Certified Copies: After the marriage ceremony, certified copies of the marriage license can be obtained for legal purposes, such as name changes. The fee is typically $9. Douglas County Clerk
- Officiants: Marriages can be solemnized by judges, retired judges, clerks magistrate, or ordained ministers. Nebraska Access
- Witnesses: Two witnesses are required during the ceremony. Marriage License
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the County Clerk’s office in the county where you plan to obtain your marriage license.
Related Questions Marriage Licenses in Nebraska
What does it take to get a marriage license in Nebraska?
Obtaining a marriage license in Nebraska takes fulfilling a set of requirements, which include being of legal age, providing valid identification, and completing an application in person at the County Clerk’s office. Ensuring you have all necessary documentation and information is essential for a smooth application process.
Couples should be ready to disclose their full names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and possibly information about any previous marriages. There are no residency or citizenship requirements, making Nebraska an accessible location for all couples wishing to marry.
Can you get married same day in Nebraska?
Yes, in most cases, you can get married on the same day you receive your marriage license in Nebraska. There is no waiting period between obtaining the license and when the ceremony can be legally performed. This makes it convenient for couples planning a quick wedding or elopement.
However, it’s important to have a marriage officiant and, if required by the venue, witnesses ready to go. After the ceremony, ensure the license is properly signed and returned to the County Clerk’s office to finalize the marriage.
How much does it cost to get married at the courthouse in Nebraska?
The cost of getting married at a courthouse in Nebraska can vary depending on the county and any additional services or amenities required for the ceremony. The marriage license fee itself ranges from $25 to $34, with potential additional costs for the ceremony if performed by a judge or magistrate at the courthouse.
It’s recommended to contact the specific courthouse where you wish to marry for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and to inquire about the availability of judges or other officiants.
What to do with a marriage license after a wedding in Nebraska?
After your wedding in Nebraska, it’s critical to ensure the marriage license is properly signed by the officiant and any required witnesses. The signed license must then be returned to the County Clerk’s Office where it was issued, within the specified time frame for official recording.
This step legally validates your marriage. Afterwards, you might want to request a certified copy of your marriage record for personal records and legal purposes, such as changing your name or updating legal documents.
Securing a Nebraska marriage license is a symbol of your readiness to embark on a lifetime commitment. With this guide, couples can navigate the legal waters with ease, ensuring that when the big day comes, they can focus on the celebration of their union, backed by the full support of the law.
John Peterson is a U.S. immigration and citizenship expert with over 15 years of experience. He has dedicated his career to helping immigrants and citizens understand and navigate the legal and administrative processes related to visas and passports. John has worked in various organizations, providing personalized guidance and assistance to thousands of people. His passion for community service and deep knowledge of immigration laws make John a key figure at USHelp.info.