Pennsylvania Marriage License: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Saying ‘I Do’
Getting married in Pennsylvania? Congratulations! Before you walk down the aisle and exchange vows, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you have everything you need to legally tie the knot in the Keystone State.
Who Can Get Married in Pennsylvania?
Before diving into the application process, let’s ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for marriage in Pennsylvania:
* **Age:** You must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If you are 16 or 17, you’ll need the consent of a parent or legal guardian, and in some cases, court approval. Individuals under 16 are generally not permitted to marry in Pennsylvania.
* **Marital Status:** You must be single, divorced, or widowed. Bigamy (being married to more than one person at the same time) is illegal.
* **Relationship:** You cannot marry a close relative, such as a parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, aunt, or uncle. First cousins are permitted to marry in Pennsylvania.
* **Mental Capacity:** You must be of sound mind and understand the nature of the marriage contract.
Where to Apply for a Marriage License
In Pennsylvania, you apply for a marriage license at the **Orphans’ Court** in the county where you intend to get married. You do NOT have to be a resident of that county, or even of Pennsylvania, to apply there, as long as you will be getting married in that particular county. It is important to apply in the county where your wedding ceremony will take place. You can find the address and contact information for each county’s Orphans’ Court on the Pennsylvania Courts website or through a simple online search (e.g., “Orphans’ Court [County Name] Pennsylvania”).
* **Example:** If you plan to get married in Philadelphia, you would apply for your marriage license at the Philadelphia County Orphans’ Court.
Required Documents and Information
Gathering the necessary documents and information *before* you go to the Orphans’ Court will streamline the application process. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll typically need:
* **Identification:** Valid photo identification is required for both applicants. Acceptable forms of ID include:
* Driver’s license
* Passport
* State-issued identification card
* **Social Security Number:** You will need to provide your Social Security number. However, you do *not* need to present your Social Security card.
* **Proof of Age:** While your photo ID often suffices as proof of age, it’s a good idea to have a certified copy of your birth certificate as a backup, especially if your ID is old or damaged.
* **Divorce Decree (if applicable):** If you have been divorced, you must present a certified copy of your divorce decree(s) for *all* previous divorces. This document proves that your previous marriage has been legally terminated.
* **Death Certificate (if applicable):** If you are widowed, you must provide a certified copy of your deceased spouse’s death certificate.
* **Parental Consent (if applicable):** If you are 16 or 17 years old, you’ll need written consent from a parent or legal guardian. The specific requirements for parental consent may vary by county, so contact the Orphans’ Court in advance to confirm what documentation is needed. In some instances court approval may be needed.
* **Fees:** There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license. The fee amount varies by county and can change, so it’s crucial to check with the Orphans’ Court in the county where you’re applying to determine the current fee. Payment methods also vary, so inquire about acceptable forms of payment (e.g., cash, check, money order, credit card).
* **Addresses:** You will need the current address for both applicants.
* **Date and Place of Birth:** You will need to provide the date and place of birth for both applicants.
* **Parents’ Names and Birthplaces:** Most counties require you to provide your parents’ full names (including maiden names) and their places of birth. If a parent is deceased, you may still need to provide this information to the best of your knowledge.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the marriage license application process in Pennsylvania:
**Step 1: Research County-Specific Requirements:**
* Before you do *anything* else, contact the Orphans’ Court in the county where you plan to apply. Each county may have slightly different procedures, required forms, or specific documentation needs. Confirm their hours of operation, acceptable forms of payment, and any unique requirements they may have. Many counties have information about marriage license applications on their website.
**Step 2: Complete the Application Form:**
* Most Orphans’ Courts provide a marriage license application form that you can download from their website or obtain in person. Complete the form accurately and legibly. Be prepared to provide all the information requested, including personal details, previous marital history, and parents’ information.
**Step 3: Appear in Person:**
* Both applicants must appear in person at the Orphans’ Court to submit the application and swear to the accuracy of the information provided. Some counties require appointments, so check in advance to see if scheduling is necessary. Plan to arrive with ample time to complete the process.
**Step 4: Present Required Documents:**
* Present all the required documents to the court clerk. Ensure you have originals or certified copies, as photocopies are generally not accepted. The clerk will review your documents to verify your eligibility for a marriage license.
**Step 5: Pay the Fee:**
* Pay the marriage license fee. As mentioned earlier, the fee amount varies by county. Be prepared to pay using the accepted methods of payment.
**Step 6: Take the Oath:**
* Both applicants will be required to take an oath, swearing that the information provided on the application is true and accurate. This oath is a legal affirmation of your intent to marry.
**Step 7: Receive Your Marriage License:**
* After completing all the necessary steps, the Orphans’ Court will issue your marriage license. In Pennsylvania, there is a **mandatory three-day waiting period** after the license is issued before you can get married. This means that you cannot have your wedding ceremony until at least 72 hours after the license is issued. The license is valid for **60 days** from the date of issuance. If you do not get married within 60 days, the license expires, and you will need to reapply.
Important Considerations and Tips
* **Plan Ahead:** Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your marriage license. Give yourself ample time to gather the required documents, complete the application process, and account for the three-day waiting period. Applying several weeks or even a month before your wedding date is recommended, especially if you’re traveling from out of state or have a busy schedule.
* **Certified Copies:** Always obtain certified copies of important documents like birth certificates, divorce decrees, and death certificates. These documents have a raised seal or official stamp, indicating their authenticity. Photocopies are typically not accepted.
* **Name Change:** If you plan to change your name after the marriage, discuss the necessary procedures with the Social Security Administration and other relevant agencies. Your marriage license will be a key document for this process.
* **Out-of-State Residents:** If you are not a resident of Pennsylvania but are getting married in the state, you can apply for a marriage license in the county where your ceremony will take place. You will need to provide the same documentation as Pennsylvania residents.
* **Proxy Marriages:** Pennsylvania does *not* permit proxy marriages, where one or both parties are not physically present at the ceremony. Both applicants must be present to apply for the marriage license and at the wedding ceremony.
* **Religious Considerations:** If you have specific religious requirements for your marriage ceremony, discuss them with your officiant well in advance. Ensure that your ceremony complies with both legal and religious requirements.
* **Premarital Counseling:** While not required in Pennsylvania, premarital counseling can be a valuable resource for couples preparing for marriage. It can help you communicate effectively, address potential conflicts, and build a strong foundation for your relationship.
* **License Validity:** Remember that your Pennsylvania marriage license is only valid for 60 days. Make sure your wedding ceremony takes place within that timeframe. If the license expires, you will have to repeat the entire application process.
* **Blood Tests:** Pennsylvania does *not* require blood tests for marriage license applicants.
* **Witnesses:** Pennsylvania law requires that at least two witnesses be present at your marriage ceremony. These witnesses must be at least 18 years old.
After the Ceremony: Recording Your Marriage
After your wedding ceremony, your officiant is responsible for completing and filing the marriage license with the Orphans’ Court in the county where it was issued. The officiant typically has a limited time frame (usually within 10 days) to file the completed license. Once the license is recorded, your marriage is legally recognized by the state of Pennsylvania. You can then obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the Orphans’ Court. This certificate is an official record of your marriage and may be required for various legal and administrative purposes, such as name changes, insurance benefits, and tax filings.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
* **Lost Documents:** If you lose your divorce decree or death certificate, contact the court or vital records office that issued the original document to request a certified copy. Be prepared to provide identifying information and pay a fee for the replacement copy.
* **Incorrect Information:** If you discover an error on your marriage license after it has been issued, contact the Orphans’ Court immediately. They will advise you on the steps necessary to correct the mistake. Do not attempt to alter the license yourself, as this could invalidate it.
* **Application Denial:** If your marriage license application is denied, the Orphans’ Court will provide you with a written explanation of the reason for the denial. You may have the right to appeal the decision or address the issue that led to the denial.
County Specific Information
Because the precise details can change from county to county, it is absolutely critical to check the specific requirements for your county. Here is a listing of the Orphan’s Courts in Pennsylvania where you will apply for your marriage license:
* **Adams County:** [Link to Adams County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Allegheny County:** [Link to Allegheny County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Armstrong County:** [Link to Armstrong County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Beaver County:** [Link to Beaver County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Bedford County:** [Link to Bedford County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Berks County:** [Link to Berks County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Blair County:** [Link to Blair County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Bradford County:** [Link to Bradford County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Bucks County:** [Link to Bucks County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Butler County:** [Link to Butler County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Cambria County:** [Link to Cambria County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Cameron County:** [Link to Cameron County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Carbon County:** [Link to Carbon County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Centre County:** [Link to Centre County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Chester County:** [Link to Chester County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Clarion County:** [Link to Clarion County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Clearfield County:** [Link to Clearfield County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Clinton County:** [Link to Clinton County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Columbia County:** [Link to Columbia County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Crawford County:** [Link to Crawford County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Cumberland County:** [Link to Cumberland County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Dauphin County:** [Link to Dauphin County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Delaware County:** [Link to Delaware County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Elk County:** [Link to Elk County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Erie County:** [Link to Erie County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Fayette County:** [Link to Fayette County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Forest County:** [Link to Forest County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Franklin County:** [Link to Franklin County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Fulton County:** [Link to Fulton County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Greene County:** [Link to Greene County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Huntingdon County:** [Link to Huntingdon County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Indiana County:** [Link to Indiana County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Jefferson County:** [Link to Jefferson County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Juniata County:** [Link to Juniata County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lackawanna County:** [Link to Lackawanna County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lancaster County:** [Link to Lancaster County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lawrence County:** [Link to Lawrence County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lebanon County:** [Link to Lebanon County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lehigh County:** [Link to Lehigh County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Luzerne County:** [Link to Luzerne County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Lycoming County:** [Link to Lycoming County Orphans’ Court website]
* **McKean County:** [Link to McKean County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Mercer County:** [Link to Mercer County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Mifflin County:** [Link to Mifflin County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Monroe County:** [Link to Monroe County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Montgomery County:** [Link to Montgomery County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Montour County:** [Link to Montour County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Northampton County:** [Link to Northampton County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Northumberland County:** [Link to Northumberland County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Perry County:** [Link to Perry County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Philadelphia County:** [Link to Philadelphia County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Pike County:** [Link to Pike County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Potter County:** [Link to Potter County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Schuylkill County:** [Link to Schuylkill County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Snyder County:** [Link to Snyder County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Somerset County:** [Link to Somerset County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Sullivan County:** [Link to Sullivan County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Susquehanna County:** [Link to Susquehanna County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Tioga County:** [Link to Tioga County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Union County:** [Link to Union County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Venango County:** [Link to Venango County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Warren County:** [Link to Warren County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Washington County:** [Link to Washington County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Wayne County:** [Link to Wayne County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Westmoreland County:** [Link to Westmoreland County Orphans’ Court website]
* **Wyoming County:** [Link to Wyoming County Orphans’ Court website]
* **York County:** [Link to York County Orphans’ Court website]
**Note:** Please replace the bracketed placeholders above with the actual URLs to the corresponding Orphans’ Court websites. If a county does not have a dedicated website, link to the county government website and provide instructions on where to find marriage license information.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to be prepared and informed. By following the steps outlined in this guide and contacting the Orphans’ Court in the county where you plan to marry, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!