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Get Hitched in the Heart of New England: Marriage Licenses in NH Explained

Get Hitched in the Heart of New England: Marriage Licenses in NH Explained

Get your Marriage License in New Hampshire easily and quickly. Find out all the information you need to know about getting married in the Granite State.

Marriage is a significant event in one's life, and it requires proper documentation to make it legally valid. In New Hampshire, couples must obtain a marriage license before tying the knot. The process of obtaining a marriage license in NH may seem daunting, but it can be straightforward with the right information. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to obtain a marriage license in NH, from eligibility requirements to the application process.

Firstly, to apply for a marriage license in NH, both parties must be 18 years or older. If either person is under 18, they must have written consent from their parents or guardians. Additionally, both parties must provide proof of identity, such as a driver's license or passport. It's essential to note that blood tests are not required in NH to obtain a marriage license.

Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to fill out the marriage license application. This can be done online or by visiting the town or city clerk's office where you plan to get married. When filling out the application, you'll need to provide personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and current address. You'll also need to indicate whether you've been married before and the date and location of any previous marriages.

After completing the application, both parties must sign it in the presence of the town or city clerk. The fee for a marriage license in NH is $50, payable by cash, check, or money order. Once you've paid the fee, the town or city clerk will issue you a marriage license. It's important to note that the marriage license is only valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.

Before the wedding, the couple must give the marriage license to the person performing the ceremony. This person will then complete the marriage certificate and return it to the town or city clerk's office within six days of the wedding. Once the marriage certificate is recorded, a certified copy will be available for purchase.

It's crucial to ensure that all the necessary steps are taken to obtain a marriage license in NH. Failure to follow the proper procedure could result in the marriage being deemed invalid. Additionally, couples must remember that a marriage license does not mean they are automatically married. They must still have a ceremony performed by an authorized person to make the union legal.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in NH is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and following the correct procedure. By meeting eligibility requirements, filling out the application, paying the fee, and obtaining the necessary documentation, couples can make their marriage legally valid. Remember to allow enough time to obtain the license before the wedding day to avoid any unnecessary stress or complications.

Introduction

Getting married is a momentous event in anyone's life. However, before couples can tie the knot, they need to obtain a marriage license. This legal document authorizes two individuals to get married and is required by law in all states in the United States, including New Hampshire. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire.

The Basics of Marriage License in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, couples who want to get married must apply for a marriage license at their local town or city clerk's office. Both parties must appear in person and provide identification, such as a driver's license or passport, to prove their age and identity. The minimum age to get married in New Hampshire is 18 years old. However, minors who are 16 or 17 years old can also marry with parental consent.

Residency Requirement

There is no residency requirement for couples who want to get married in New Hampshire. This means that couples from out of state can also obtain a marriage license in New Hampshire. However, they must still apply in person at a local town or city clerk's office.

Waiting period and Expiration

After applying for a marriage license in New Hampshire, there is a three-day waiting period before the license is issued. This waiting period can be waived by a judge or justice of the peace if there is a valid reason for doing so. Once the license is issued, it is valid for 90 days and can be used to get married anywhere in the state of New Hampshire.

Application Process

To apply for a marriage license in New Hampshire, both parties must appear in person at a local town or city clerk's office. They must bring with them a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport, to prove their age and identity. They must also provide their social security numbers and the names and birthplaces of their parents.

Fee

There is a fee for obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire. The fee varies depending on the town or city where the application is made. In general, the fee ranges from $45 to $100. This fee must be paid in cash or by check.

Prior Marriages

If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of the termination of their previous marriage. This can be done by presenting a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse. If the divorce was finalized within the last 30 days, a certified copy of the divorce decree must be presented.

Ceremony and Officiants

Once the marriage license is obtained, couples can get married anywhere in the state of New Hampshire. The ceremony can be performed by a justice of the peace, judge, or other authorized officiant. The ceremony must be witnessed by at least two people who are over the age of 18.

Officiants

In New Hampshire, there are many officiants available to perform marriages. Couples can choose to have a religious or secular ceremony. They can also have a friend or family member officiate their wedding, as long as that person is authorized by the state to do so.

Ceremony Locations

Couples can get married anywhere in the state of New Hampshire, as long as the location is open to the public. This includes parks, beaches, and other outdoor locations. Couples can also get married in a private residence or other private location, as long as they have permission from the owner.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire is a straightforward process that requires both parties to apply in person at a local town or city clerk's office. After a three-day waiting period, the license is issued and is valid for 90 days. Couples can then get married anywhere in the state of New Hampshire, with many options available for ceremony locations and officiants. With all of these options available, couples can create the wedding of their dreams in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.

Marriage License Requirements in NH

Getting married is an exciting step for any couple, but before you can tie the knot, you need to obtain a marriage license. In New Hampshire, there are specific requirements and procedures that must be followed to obtain a marriage license.

Age and Presence Requirements

To apply for a marriage license in New Hampshire, both parties must be at least 18 years old. Both individuals must also be present when applying for the license. If one of the individuals cannot be present, they can fill out an Absentee Affidavit, which must be signed in front of a Notary Public.

Identification Needed to Apply

When applying for a marriage license in New Hampshire, both parties must provide a valid photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. The photo ID must be current and not expired.

Waiting Period

After submitting the application for a marriage license, there is a three-day waiting period before the license can be issued. This means that the earliest date you can obtain your license is three days after you apply. The waiting period can be waived by a judge or justice of the peace under certain circumstances.

Expiration of License

Once issued, a marriage license in NH is valid for 90 days. If you do not get married within the 90-day period, you will need to apply for a new license.

Proof of Divorce or Dissolution of Civil Union Required

If you or your partner have been married or in a civil union before, you will need to provide proof of the dissolution of that prior union. This can include a divorce decree, annulment decree, or death certificate of a former spouse.

Blood Tests Not Required

Unlike some states, New Hampshire does not require blood tests to obtain a marriage license.

Fees for Marriage License

There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in NH. The cost varies by county, so it is important to check with your local city or town clerk for the exact fee.

Same-Sex Marriage

New Hampshire has recognized same-sex marriage since 2010. All the same requirements and procedures apply to same-sex couples as opposite-sex couples.

Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage License

After the wedding ceremony has taken place, the officiant will sign and complete the marriage license. The completed license must then be returned to the city or town clerk for recording. Anyone can access a certified copy of the marriage license for a fee.

Planning Ahead

It is important to begin the process of obtaining a marriage license several weeks before the wedding ceremony to ensure that all requirements are met and the license can be issued in a timely manner. This will help avoid any last-minute complications or delays.In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire requires meeting specific requirements and following certain procedures. By understanding these requirements and planning ahead, you can ensure that your wedding day goes smoothly and that you are legally married in the eyes of the state.

Marriage License in New Hampshire

Point of View

As a government entity responsible for issuing marriage licenses, the State of New Hampshire recognizes the importance of legalizing the union between two individuals. The issuance of a marriage license is a legal process that ensures the rights and privileges of each spouse are protected under state law.

Pros of Marriage License in NH

1. Legal Protection: A marriage license provides legal protection to both spouses in case of any disputes or conflicts that may arise during the course of their marriage.

2. Recognition: A marriage license is a recognition of the couple's commitment to each other and their desire to formalize their relationship.

3. Benefits: A marriage license allows couples to avail of various benefits, such as health insurance coverage, tax breaks, and inheritance rights.

Cons of Marriage License in NH

1. Cost: There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license, which can be a financial burden for some couples.

2. Wait Time: In some cases, there may be a waiting period between the application for a marriage license and its issuance, which can delay wedding plans.

3. Legal Obligations: Obtaining a marriage license also comes with legal obligations and responsibilities, such as adhering to state laws regarding divorce and child custody.

Table Information about Marriage License in NH

Keyword Definition
Marriage License A legal document issued by the state that authorizes the union of two individuals in matrimony.
Legal Protection The safeguards and rights afforded to couples who have obtained a marriage license.
Recognition The acknowledgement and acceptance of the couple's union by the state and society at large.
Benefits The advantages and privileges that come with being legally married, such as tax breaks and insurance coverage.
Cost The fee associated with obtaining a marriage license.
Wait Time The period between application for a marriage license and its issuance.
Legal Obligations The responsibilities and obligations that come with being legally married, such as adhering to state laws regarding divorce and child custody.

Closing Message for Marriage License NH Blog Visitors

As we come to the end of this blog post, we hope that we have been able to provide you with valuable information about obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire. We understand that getting married is an important milestone in your life and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation is crucial.

If you have any further questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to your local town clerk's office or visit the state's official website for more information. Remember that each town may have its own requirements, so it's important to do your research beforehand.

It's also essential to note that the process of obtaining a marriage license can take some time, so plan accordingly. In New Hampshire, there is no waiting period, but you should allow for processing time and scheduling an appointment with the town clerk's office.

When applying for a marriage license, both parties must be present, and you will need to bring proper identification and pay the required fee. Make sure to double-check what forms of identification are accepted and what the fee is, as it may vary by town.

Once you have your marriage license, you can begin planning your wedding ceremony. Remember that the license is only valid for 90 days, so plan your wedding date accordingly. It's also important to note that a Justice of the Peace or ordained minister must perform the ceremony within the state of New Hampshire.

We hope that this blog post has been helpful in answering any questions you may have had about obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire. We understand that navigating the legal requirements can be overwhelming, but we're here to help.

Finally, we want to congratulate you on your upcoming nuptials. Marriage is a beautiful and life-changing event, and we wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Remember to enjoy the journey and cherish every moment.

Thank you for visiting our blog, and we hope that you found the information informative and useful. If you have any further questions or would like to share your experience obtaining a marriage license in New Hampshire, please feel free to leave a comment below.

People Also Ask About Marriage License in New Hampshire

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is a legal document required by the state of New Hampshire that allows couples to legally marry. The license is issued by the town or city clerk where the couple lives or where the marriage will take place.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, both individuals must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license. If one or both parties are under 18, they must obtain written consent from their parents or guardians. Additionally, individuals who are already married or closely related (e.g. siblings) cannot apply for a marriage license in New Hampshire.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Marriage License in New Hampshire?

To apply for a marriage license in New Hampshire, you will need to bring the following documents:

  • Valid photo identification (e.g. driver's license, passport)
  • Birth certificate or other proof of age
  • Social security number
  • Divorce decree or death certificate if previously married

How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in New Hampshire?

The cost of a marriage license in New Hampshire varies depending on the town or city where the license is issued. The fee can range from $45 to $100, and some towns may offer discounts for couples who complete a pre-marital counseling program.

How Long is a Marriage License Valid in New Hampshire?

A marriage license in New Hampshire is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued. Couples must get married within this time period or they will need to apply for a new license.

Can You Get Married the Same Day You Apply for a Marriage License in New Hampshire?

In most cases, yes. Once you have obtained your marriage license, there is a three-day waiting period before you can get married. However, this waiting period can be waived by a judge or justice of the peace if there is a compelling reason to do so.