So You Wanna Tie the Knot in Pennsyland? Here's How to Get Your Marriage License (Without Getting Cold Feet)
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your bagel, your peanut butter to your jelly (all delicious metaphors, by the way). Now it's time to make it official and snag that marriage license in the great state of Pennsylvania. But before you rush off to the nearest courthouse in your finest sweatpants (because comfort is key, even during bureaucracy), let's take a quick spin through the process.
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| How To Get A Marriage License In The State Of Pennsylvania |
Step 1: You and Your Boo Need to Gather Top-Secret Documents (Well, Not That Top-Secret)
- Valid Photo ID: Think driver's license, passport, something that screams "Yes, this is the real me, ready to get hitched!"
- Social Security Card (or Passport if you don't have one): This isn't about spying on your credit score, it's just some identification housekeeping.
- Divorce Decree (if either of you has been married before): Because bigamy is a no-no, and let's be honest, a recipe for reality TV drama.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to dust off these documents and make sure they haven't mysteriously sprouted wings and flown the coop.
Step 2: Adventure to the Courthouse (or Maybe Not So Much)
Here's the good news: Depending on your county, you might be able to apply for your license online. But if you're feeling social (or the internet just hates you today), then a trip to the courthouse it is!
Check with your county beforehand to see if online applications are an option!
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Step 3: The Big "I Do" to the Application Process (and Maybe the Officiant Too?)
Once you're at the courthouse (or comfy at home with your laptop), it's time to fill out the application. It's pretty straightforward, but hey, if butterflies are causing memory lapses, here's a quick rundown:
- Basic Info: Names, addresses, occupations (because apparently your job title is important to your marital status?).
- Parental Info: Unless you're eloping to Vegas (in which case, good luck!), you might need some parental details.
- Wait a Minute...Are You Sure You Wanna Do This? Pennsylvania has a mandatory 3-day waiting period after applying. So take a deep breath, and maybe use the time to plan a killer honeymoon.
Remember: The application fee might vary by county, so be prepared to shell out some cash (unless you've been saving those wedding pennies already).
Step 4: Congratulations! You're Officially Licensed to Wed (Cue the Wedding Bells...But Maybe Not Literally)
After three long days (or maybe they flew by in a whirlwind of wedding planning), you can pick up your marriage license. This little beauty is valid for 60 days, so don't wait too long to say "I do" (unless your significant other has cold feet, in which case, this license might become a collector's item).
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
Now get out there and celebrate your love!
FAQs for the Soon-to-be-Wed Pennsylvanian Couple
How to find out where to apply for a marriage license in my county?
A quick Google search for "[your county] marriage license office" should do the trick!
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
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How much does a marriage license cost in Pennsylvania?
The fee varies by county, so check with your local office for the exact amount.
Can I get married outside of Pennsylvania with a Pennsylvania marriage license?
Tip: Write down what you learned.
Yes, but it's always a good idea to check the marriage license requirements of the state where you'll be getting hitched.
How long is a Pennsylvania marriage license valid for?
60 days from the date of issue. Don't wait too long to tie the knot!
What if one of us is under 18?
Pennsylvania law requires you to be 18 to get married without parental consent. For more information on underage marriages, check with your local courthouse.
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