So You're Tying the Knot in Pennsylvania: Let's Get a License (and Avoid Jail Time, Ideally)
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half who (hopefully) won't steal all the blankets. But before you can say "I do" and clink champagne flutes (filled with the beverage of your choice, of course), there's a little administrative hurdle to jump: the marriage license.
Fear not, lovebirds! This guide will have you navigating the marriage license maze of Pennsylvania smoother than a well-practiced wedding dance (or at least smoother than your uncle Tony's after a few too many cocktails at the reception).
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| How And Where Can You Apply For A Marriage License In Pennsylvania |
The Quest for the License: Where to Begin
Thankfully, you don't need to embark on a Lord of the Rings-esque journey to obtain your marriage license. In Pennsylvania, you can apply at any county courthouse or district justice office. This means you can apply in your home county, or the county where your dream wedding venue resides – whichever location best suits your fancy (and travel plans).
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Pro Tip: Check your chosen courthouse or district justice office's website beforehand. Some counties are offering online applications or virtual appointments, saving you precious pre-wedding moments that can be better spent on cake tastings or mastering the first dance.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
Applicants Assemble: What to Bring
Now, you might be thinking, "What magical items do we need to secure this license?" Well, the good news is, you don't need any enchanted artifacts or a vial of your true love's tears (though that might make a killer centerpiece). Here's the mundane but necessary stuff:
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- Both applicants in person (or virtually, depending on the county) – Yes, this is your chance to practice those pre-wedding jitters together.
- Valid photo ID for each applicant – Driver's licenses, passports, or state IDs are all welcome. No showing up with your middle school yearbook picture, please.
- Social Security numbers (or passports if you don't have one) – The government needs to know a little bit about you lovebirds, but nothing too personal (unlike your aunt Gertrude who will grill you about your future plans at the reception).
- Fee (usually around $80) – Think of it as an investment in your happily ever after.
Additionally, if you've been married before: dust off those divorce decrees and bring them along.
The Waiting Game: The 72-Hour Rule
Once you've presented your documents and said your "I wills" (to getting married, that is), there's usually a 72-hour waiting period. This isn't some cruel test of your love, but rather a Pennsylvania law to ensure you haven't been swept off your feet by a rogue wedding planner and aren't making any rash decisions (though, with all the cake at tastings, who can blame you?).
Once the waiting period is over, you'll receive your marriage license, the official green light to tie the knot! Now you can celebrate, take those adorable engagement photos, and argue good-naturedly about the wedding playlist.
Frequently Asked Questions (For the Forgetful Lovebirds):
- How long is a marriage license valid for in Pennsylvania? Most licenses are good for 60 days, so plan your wedding accordingly.
- What happens if my fiance(e) and I live in different counties? No worries! You can apply in either county.
- Can I get a marriage license online? Some counties offer online applications, so check their website!
- Do we need witnesses to get married? Yes, you'll need two witnesses to sign your marriage license after the ceremony.
- What happens after the wedding? Once you're officially hitched, don't forget to return your completed marriage license to the county office that issued it – they need to update their records and ensure your happily ever after is documented.
Now go forth, lovebirds, and conquer your marriage license quest! With this guide and a little love, you'll be well on your way to wedded bliss.
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