New Jersey marriage license
Planning your special day in New Jersey involves understanding the legalities, such as obtaining a marriage license. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process to ensure your nuptials are recognized by law.
Whether you’re a local resident or from out of town, knowing the steps to secure a New Jersey marriage license is crucial. Let’s navigate through the requirements and procedures together.
How do you apply for a marriage license in New Jersey?
The first step towards your dream wedding in the Garden State is to apply for a marriage license. This involves visiting your local Registrar’s Office or the Marriage License Bureau with the necessary documentation in hand.
Applicants must fill out a form, which can also be found online, ensuring all information provided is accurate and up-to-date. A witness over the age of 18 must be present during the application process to attest to the information given.
Following the submission of your application, there is a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before the license becomes valid. This waiting period serves as a final reflection time before you officially tie the knot.
What are the requirements for a New Jersey marriage license?
Meeting the requirements for a New Jersey marriage license is a non-negotiable part of getting married in NJ. Both parties must be at least 18 years of age or have parental consent if younger.
Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state/federal ID, and proof of residency are essential. Additionally, details about any previous marriages must be disclosed, including the date and manner in which they ended.
For non-residents, similar rules apply, with the added necessity of conducting the marriage ceremony within the municipality where the license was issued.
Can you apply for a New Jersey marriage license online?
While you can begin the application process online by filling out the necessary forms, the application must be completed in person at the local Registrar’s office. This ensures that all details are verified and that you receive all the guidance needed for your application.
Online resources are helpful for understanding the process, gathering the required documents, and preparing for the steps that will follow your in-person visit.
What is the cost of a New Jersey marriage license?
As of the latest information, obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey comes with a fee of $28. This fee is subject to change, so it is recommended to check with your Registrar’s office for the most current cost.
The fee contributes to the administrative costs of processing the application and issuing the license, ensuring that your marital status is legally recognized and recorded.
How long does it take to get a marriage license in New Jersey?
After applying for a marriage license, there is a state-mandated 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued. This waiting time starts from the moment the application is filed, not from when it is completed online.
Once the waiting period is over, the couple can pick up their license. It is then valid for 30 days, giving the soon-to-be-wedded pair ample time to arrange their ceremony within the state.
What documents are needed for a New Jersey marriage license?
When applying for a marriage license in New Jersey, you’ll need to present several specific documents:
- A valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Proof of residency
- Social Security numbers
- A witness over 18 years of age
- If previously married, documentation of divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse
It’s important to have these documents ready to ensure the process goes smoothly and to avoid any delays in obtaining your license.
What happens to your marriage license after the wedding in NJ?
Following your wedding ceremony, the officiant is responsible for filing the marriage license with the local Registrar’s office. This step finalizes the legal process and officially records your marriage.
The couple will then receive a copy of their marriage certificate, which serves as proof of the marriage for various legal purposes such as name changes and benefits.
Remember that the marriage license is not the same as the marriage certificate, which is only issued after the ceremony has taken place and the license has been properly filed.
Marriage License Procedures in New Jersey
Obtaining a marriage license in New Jersey involves several steps. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you:
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Identification: Valid government-issued photo ID is required.
- Residency: If either applicant is a New Jersey resident, apply in the municipality where either resides. If both are non-residents, apply in the municipality where the ceremony will occur.
Application Process
- In-Person Application: Both parties must appear together at the local registrar’s office.
- Documentation: Present valid identification, proof of residency, and Social Security number.
- Witness: Bring one witness aged 18 or older.
- Fee: A $28 application fee is required.
Waiting Period
- Duration: There is a mandatory 72-hour waiting period after the application is filed.
- Waiver: The waiting period can be waived by a Superior Court judge in cases of emergency.
Validity
- License Validity: The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
County Clerk Offices
Here are some County Clerk Offices in New Jersey:
Bergen County Clerk’s Office
- Address: One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ 07601
- Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Phone: (201) 336-7000
- Website: Bergen County Clerk
Essex County Clerk’s Office
- Address: 465 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102
- Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Phone: (973) 621-4921
- Website: Essex County Clerk
Hudson County Clerk’s Office
- Address: 257 Cornelison Ave, 4th Floor, Jersey City, NJ 07302
- Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Phone: (201) 369-3470
- Website: Hudson County Clerk
Additional Information
- Officiants: Marriages can be solemnized by judges, mayors, county clerks, and ministers of any religion.
- Return of License: The officiant must return the completed license to the issuing registrar within five days of the ceremony.
For more detailed information, visit the official websites of the respective County Clerk’s Offices.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Marriage Licensing
What do you have to do to get a marriage license in NJ?
To secure a marriage license in NJ, couples need to complete an application form, provide the required documents, and observe the 72-hour waiting period. Make sure to plan accordingly to avoid any timing issues.
Additionally, the presence of a witness and the payment of the application fee are key steps in this process. Once these steps have been completed, the couple can legally wed within the state.
Can you get married online in New Jersey?
While the initial application can be started online, the actual marriage ceremony and finalization of the license cannot be completed virtually. New Jersey requires couples to appear in person to finalize their application and to conduct the marriage ceremony.
Virtual ceremonies may not be legally binding in New Jersey, so it’s important to follow the traditional in-person process.
Do you need an appointment to get married in NJ?
It’s advisable to make an appointment with your local Registrar’s office to apply for a marriage license. This helps ensure you receive timely service and that all requirements are clearly communicated.
When planning the ceremony, it’s also wise to schedule with an officiant and secure a venue in advance, particularly during peak wedding seasons.
How many witnesses do you need for a marriage license in NJ?
In New Jersey, you are required to have at least one witness present who is over the age of 18 when applying for the marriage license. This person attests to the truthfulness of the information provided by the applicants.
During the ceremony itself, it’s common to have additional witnesses as part of the formalities, but for the application, only one is necessary.
Understanding the steps and requirements for obtaining a New Jersey marriage license is vital for any couple looking to marry in this beautiful state. With this guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to ensure your marriage complies with local laws and regulations. Here’s to a seamless process and a wonderful wedding day in New Jersey!
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.