Get Hitched in St. Louis County: All You Need to Know About Applying for Marriage License
Obtain your St Louis County Marriage License hassle-free! Our guide provides all the information you need to get started. Don't wait, tie the knot today!
Are you planning to tie the knot in St. Louis County but don't know where to start? One of the most important steps in getting married is obtaining a marriage license, and St. Louis County has specific requirements that couples must follow. Whether you're a resident of the county or planning a destination wedding, understanding the process for obtaining a marriage license can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
First and foremost, it's important to note that both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license in St. Louis County. This means that you can't simply mail in an application or have a proxy apply on your behalf. Additionally, you'll need to provide certain documentation to prove your identity and eligibility to get married.
One document you'll need to bring is a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number, although you don't necessarily need to bring your physical Social Security card. If you've been married before, you'll need to bring a certified copy of your divorce decree or death certificate of your former spouse.
Once you've gathered all the necessary documentation, you'll need to fill out an application for a marriage license. This can be done online ahead of time or in person at the Recorder of Deeds office in Clayton. The application will ask for basic information about you and your partner, such as your names, ages, and places of birth.
After submitting your application, you'll need to pay a fee for the marriage license. As of 2021, the fee in St. Louis County is $51.50. Keep in mind that this fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you ultimately decide not to get married.
Once you've paid the fee, you'll need to wait a mandatory 3-day waiting period before your marriage license is issued. This waiting period is required by law and cannot be waived. However, if you need to get married sooner than 3 days, you can apply for a waiver of the waiting period.
Assuming you've waited out the 3-day period, you can now pick up your marriage license from the Recorder of Deeds office. Be sure to bring your government-issued photo ID with you, as you'll need to show it to receive your license.
It's important to note that your marriage license is only valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. If you don't get married within this timeframe, you'll need to apply for a new license and pay the fee again.
Once you have your marriage license in hand, you're free to get married in any location within St. Louis County. Whether you choose a traditional church wedding or opt for a more unconventional ceremony, having your marriage license in order is a crucial step in making your big day official.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in St. Louis County may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and information to apply for and receive your license with ease. Whether you're a lifelong resident of the county or visiting from out of town, knowing how to navigate the process for getting married in St. Louis County can help make your wedding day one to remember.
The Importance of a St. Louis County Marriage License
A marriage license is an official document that signifies the legal union between two individuals. It is a critical document that enables couples to enjoy the benefits and privileges of marriage, such as joint tax returns, health care benefits, inheritance rights, and more. In St. Louis County, obtaining a marriage license is a relatively straightforward process that requires certain documentation and compliance with state laws.
Eligibility for a Marriage License in St. Louis County
To apply for a marriage license in St. Louis County, both parties must be at least 18 years old and unmarried. If either party has been married previously, they must provide proof of divorce or annulment before applying for a new marriage license. Additionally, both parties must appear in person at the Recorder of Deeds office to apply for the license.
Required Documentation for a Marriage License in St. Louis County
When applying for a marriage license in St. Louis County, both parties must provide valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card. They must also provide a social security number or, if not eligible for one, sign an affidavit to that effect. Finally, they must pay a fee to obtain the license.
Waiting Period for a Marriage License in St. Louis County
In St. Louis County, there is a three-day waiting period between the time a couple applies for a marriage license and the time they can legally get married. This waiting period is intended to give couples time to reflect on their decision and ensure that they are making the right choice.
Expiration of a Marriage License in St. Louis County
Once a couple obtains a marriage license in St. Louis County, they have 30 days to get married. If they do not get married within that time frame, the license expires, and they must apply for a new one if they still wish to marry.
Obtaining a Certified Copy of a Marriage License in St. Louis County
After a couple gets married and their marriage is recorded by the Recorder of Deeds office, they can obtain a certified copy of their marriage license. This copy serves as proof of marriage and can be used for various legal and administrative purposes.
Changing Your Name After Marriage in St. Louis County
If a person wishes to change their name after getting married in St. Louis County, they must use their certified copy of the marriage license to update their name on various legal documents, such as a driver's license, passport, and social security card.
Common Questions About St. Louis County Marriage Licenses
Some common questions about marriage licenses in St. Louis County include:
- Can non-residents apply for a marriage license in St. Louis County?
- Is blood testing required to obtain a marriage license?
- Can same-sex couples obtain a marriage license in St. Louis County?
The answers to these questions and more can be found on the Recorder of Deeds website or by contacting their office directly.
Conclusion
A St. Louis County marriage license is a critical document that enables couples to enjoy the benefits and privileges of marriage. By understanding the eligibility requirements, required documentation, waiting period, and other important details, couples can ensure that they obtain a valid and legally binding marriage license in St. Louis County.
St. Louis County Marriage License: What You Need to Know
If you're planning to tie the knot in St. Louis County, Missouri, there are some important things you need to know about obtaining a marriage license. From eligibility requirements to application process and fees, we'll cover all the details to help make your wedding planning a breeze.Eligibility Requirements
Before you can obtain a marriage license in St. Louis County, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. The most basic requirement is that you must be at least 18 years of age. If you are younger than 18, you will need parental consent to obtain a marriage license. Additionally, you cannot marry someone who is already married or closely related to you.Application Process
To apply for a marriage license in St. Louis County, you must do so in person at the Recorder's Office. You will need to bring certain documents with you, including a valid ID (such as a driver's license or passport) and a certified copy of your birth certificate. The Recorder's Office also requires that you provide your Social Security number.Once you have submitted your application and provided all necessary documents, you will need to wait three days before the license can be issued. This waiting period is mandatory and cannot be waived.Fees
There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in St. Louis County, which varies depending on whether you are a resident of Missouri and whether you have completed a premarital education course. For residents of Missouri who have not completed a premarital education course, the fee is $51.50. If you are not a resident of Missouri, the fee is $66.50. However, if you have completed a premarital education course, you may be eligible for a discount on the fee.Expiration
Marriage licenses in St. Louis County expire after 30 days from the date of issuance. This means that you must have your ceremony performed within that time frame, or you will need to apply for a new marriage license.Officiant Requirements
In St. Louis County, you must have an ordained minister, justice of the peace, or another authorized individual perform your wedding ceremony. It is important to ensure that your chosen officiant is authorized to perform marriages in Missouri.Ceremony Requirements
Your wedding ceremony must be performed in the presence of at least two witnesses, who must be at least 18 years of age. The witnesses will need to sign the marriage license after the ceremony has been performed.Record Keeping
The Recorder's Office in St. Louis County is responsible for keeping marriage records. These records are available to the public and can be obtained by anyone who wishes to view them.Changing Name
After you get married, you may choose to change your last name. To do so, you will need to present your marriage license at the Social Security Administration and the Department of Motor Vehicles.Annulment and Divorce
If your marriage ends in annulment or divorce, you may need to obtain a copy of your marriage license for legal purposes. You can obtain a copy of your marriage license from the Recorder's Office in St. Louis County.In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in St. Louis County requires meeting certain eligibility requirements, submitting an application in person at the Recorder's Office, and paying a fee. After a mandatory waiting period of three days, the license can be issued and the wedding ceremony can take place. Remember to follow the officiant and ceremony requirements, as well as record keeping and name change procedures. In case of annulment or divorce, keep a copy of your marriage license for legal purposes.St Louis County Marriage License: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Getting married is one of the most significant steps in life, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial part of the process. If you are planning to get married in St Louis County, Missouri, you must obtain a St Louis County Marriage License. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about St Louis County Marriage License, its pros, and cons.Pros of St Louis County Marriage License
Here are some advantages of getting a St Louis County Marriage License:
- Legal Recognition: When you obtain a St Louis County Marriage License, your marriage is legally recognized by the state of Missouri.
- Easy and Convenient: Getting a marriage license is relatively easy and convenient. You can easily apply online or in-person by visiting the Recorder of Deeds office at the St Louis County Government Center.
- Valid for 30 Days: Once you obtain a St Louis County Marriage License, it is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This gives couples ample time to plan their wedding ceremony.
- No Waiting Period: There is no waiting period to obtain a marriage license in St Louis County. Couples can get married as soon as they receive their license.
- Low Cost: The fee for obtaining a St Louis County Marriage License is relatively low compared to other states, making it an affordable option for couples.
Cons of St Louis County Marriage License
Here are some disadvantages of getting a St Louis County Marriage License:
- Restrictions: There are some restrictions on who can obtain a St Louis County Marriage License. For instance, both parties must be at least 18 years old and not already married.
- Public Record: Once you obtain a marriage license, it becomes part of the public record. This means that anyone can access information about your marriage, including your full name, date of birth, and date of marriage.
- No Refunds: If you apply for a St Louis County Marriage License and later decide not to get married, you will not receive a refund.
St Louis County Marriage License Requirements
If you are planning to get a St Louis County Marriage License, you must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Both parties must be at least 18 years old. |
| Identification | You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. |
| Residency Requirement | There is no residency requirement to obtain a St Louis County Marriage License. |
| Waiting Period | There is no waiting period in St Louis County. Couples can get married as soon as they receive their license. |
| Fee | The fee for obtaining a St Louis County Marriage License is $50. |
Conclusion
Obtaining a St Louis County Marriage License is an essential step when planning to get married in Missouri. It is relatively easy and affordable, making it a popular choice for couples. However, there are some restrictions and drawbacks that couples should be aware of before applying for a license. By understanding the pros and cons of getting a St Louis County Marriage License, couples can make an informed decision and enjoy their wedding day with peace of mind.Closing Message: St. Louis County Marriage License
Dear blog visitors,
Thank you for taking the time to read this comprehensive guide on obtaining a marriage license in St. Louis County. We hope that this article has provided you with all the necessary information you need to make your marriage license application process seamless and stress-free.
Remember, getting a marriage license is an essential step towards legalizing your union. The process may seem complex, but with the right information and preparation, it can be straightforward and effortless.
If you have any questions or concerns about the application process, do not hesitate to contact the St. Louis County Recorder's office. They are always ready to assist you and provide guidance through each step of the process.
As a reminder, ensure that you and your partner meet all the eligibility requirements before submitting your application. This will help to avoid unnecessary delays or denials. Additionally, ensure that you have all the required documentation before visiting the Recorder's office.
Applying for a marriage license can be a bit overwhelming, but once you have all the necessary documents and information, it should be a breeze. Remember, the Recorder's office is there to make the process as easy as possible for you.
It is also crucial to note that obtaining a marriage license is just the beginning of your journey as a couple. Marriage is a significant commitment that requires love, patience, and understanding. It is a promise to stand by each other through thick and thin, and it is essential to treat it as such.
We hope that you find this article helpful not only in your quest for a marriage license but also in your journey as a couple. Remember, communication is key, and always strive to work together to build a healthy and happy relationship.
Finally, we would like to wish you all the best in your marriage journey. May your union be filled with love, joy, and happiness! Congratulations on taking this significant step towards a lifetime of happiness!
Thank you for visiting our blog and reading through this guide. We hope to see you again soon.
Warm Regards,
The Blog Team
People Also Ask About St Louis County Marriage License
1. What are the requirements for getting a marriage license in St Louis County?
To get a marriage license in St Louis County, both parties must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued photo ID. If either party has been married before, they must provide proof of divorce or annulment. Both parties must also appear in person to apply for the license.
2. How much does it cost to get a marriage license in St Louis County?
The fee for a marriage license in St Louis County is $46. This fee may be paid by cash, check, or credit card.
3. Is there a waiting period to get a marriage license in St Louis County?
Yes, there is a three-day waiting period after the application is submitted before the license can be issued. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties complete a marriage education program.
4. How long is a St Louis County marriage license valid?
A St Louis County marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. The marriage ceremony must take place within this time frame.
5. Can I apply for a St Louis County marriage license online?
No, you cannot apply for a St Louis County marriage license online. Both parties must appear in person at the Recorder of Deeds office to apply for the license.
6. Can someone else apply for a St Louis County marriage license on my behalf?
No, both parties must appear in person to apply for a St Louis County marriage license. However, if one party is unable to appear due to illness or military service, they may be represented by a designated agent with proper documentation.
7. Can I get married the same day I apply for a marriage license in St Louis County?
No, there is a three-day waiting period after the application is submitted before the license can be issued. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties complete a marriage education program.
8. Do I need to have a blood test to get a marriage license in St Louis County?
No, a blood test is not required to get a marriage license in St Louis County.
9. Where can I find more information about getting a marriage license in St Louis County?
You can find more information about getting a marriage license in St Louis County by visiting the Recorder of Deeds office or their website. You may also call their office at (314) 615-7100 for assistance.