Tying the Knot in Pennsylvania: Your Guide to Getting a Marriage License (Without Getting Hitched in Red Tape)
So you've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half (or maybe just the person who tolerates your Netflix binges). Congratulations! Now it's time to make it official by obtaining that magical piece of paper: the Pennsylvania Marriage License. Don't worry, it's not brain surgery (although some might argue that marriage itself is...). But fear not, lovebirds, this guide will have you waltzing down the aisle in no time, license in hand.
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| How To Get Marriage License In Pennsylvania |
Step 1: You and Your Boo Need Some ID (and Maybe Proof You're Not Already Married to Someone Else)
- Driver's License or Passport: Dust off those IDs, folks. You'll need to show proof you are who you say you are (no, "The One" or "Bae" won't cut it).
- Divorce Decree (if applicable): Been there, done that, got the t-shirt (and the decree)? Be prepared to show it if a previous marriage ended in anything other than a happy "happily ever after."
- Death Certificate (if applicable): Let's be honest, no one wants a ghostly ex at the wedding. If your past spouse has kicked the bucket (peacefully, we hope), a death certificate is needed.
Important Note: Birth certificates are usually only required if you lack other forms of ID.
Step 2: Pick Your Poison (County, That Is)
Marriage licenses are issued by counties, so you'll need to find your designated love official. Check out your county's website or the Pennsylvania Courts website to find the nearest office.
Pro Tip: Some counties offer online applications, while others require appearing in person. Plan accordingly to avoid hangry meltdowns while waiting in line.
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
Step 3: Prepare to Pony Up Some Cash (But Not Your Firstborn)
The fee for a marriage license varies by county, but generally hovers around $50 to $60. Think of it as an investment in a lifetime of (hopefully) wedded bliss.
Payment Options: Cash, card, carrier pigeon carrying a money order – most counties accept various forms of payment.
Step 4: The Waiting Game (Because Everyone Needs a Little Suspense)
There's a mandatory three-day waiting period after applying for your license before you can actually get married. So relax, enjoy some pre-wedding jitters, and resist the urge to elope to Vegas (we've all been there).
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
Step 5: Congratulations! You're Licensed to Wed!
Once your three-day wait is over, you'll receive your marriage license. But remember, it's only valid for 60 days. Don't let your love license expire – get hitched before it turns into a pumpkin (or, you know, a useless piece of paper).
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to apply for a marriage license online?
Some counties offer online applications. Check your county's website for details.
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
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How long does it take to get a marriage license?
The application process itself takes little time, but there's a mandatory three-day waiting period.
How much does a marriage license cost?
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
The fee varies by county, but typically falls between $50 and $60.
What happens if my fiance has a name change?
They may need to show proof of the name change, like a certified court order.
Can we get married outside of Pennsylvania with a PA license?
Nope. A Pennsylvania marriage license is only valid within the state.
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