Hitching Up in PA: From Halls of Justice to Happily Ever After (Without the Keystone Cops)
So you've found yourself head-over-heels for someone and ready to tie the knot (metaphorically, of course. Leave the actual knots to the professionals... or your florist). Congratulations! But before you picture yourselves skipping off into the sunset, there's a little hurdle to navigate: getting married in the great state of Pennsylvania. Fear not, lovebirds, for this guide will be your roadmap to wedded bliss, minus the stress!
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| How To Get Married In Pennsylvania |
Step 1: Prove You're Not Running Away (Just Towards Each Other)
First things first, you gotta obtain a marriage license. Think of it as your official "permission to smooch" document. Both you and your partner need to visit your local county Register of Wills, marriage license bureau, or county clerk's office. Don't worry, it's not a crime scene investigation (although with all the paperwork, you might feel like Sherlock Holmes!).
Here's what you'll need to pack for your adventure:
- Valid ID: Show them you're the real deal, not some impostor with a penchant for commitment.
- Social Security numbers: Just the numbers, not your actual card (unless they have a serious confetti shortage).
- Parental info: Dust off those memory banks and be prepared to share your parents' full names, birthdates, and birthplaces.
- Previous marriage blues? If you've been down the aisle before, bring your trusty divorce decree or former spouse's death certificate.
- Cash or approved payment: Because apparently, love doesn't conquer all... it just conquers most things, except license fees.
Pro tip: Call your county office beforehand to confirm what IDs and payment methods they accept. You don't want to show up with a sack of nickels and a dream, only to be turned away.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Step 2: The Waiting Game (But Not Like That Awkward First Date Silence)
There's a mandatory three-day waiting period after you apply for your license. Think of it as a cosmic cool-down period to ensure you're not making any rash decisions fueled by wedding cake samples (though, let's be honest, that cake is pretty darn persuasive).
Step 3: The Ceremony - Let's Get This Party Started!
Now for the fun part: the actual ceremony! Pennsylvania offers a buffet of options. Want a classic religious ceremony? Find an officiant authorized by your house of worship. Craving a courthouse ceremony officiated by a judge in a robe? Magistrates and District Justices are your guys (and gals).
Here are some things to keep in mind:
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
- Officiant heads-up: If you're going the religious route, check with your officiant well in advance to ensure they're available and familiar with any specific marriage license requirements.
- Location, location, location: You can get married anywhere in Pennsylvania with your license, so get creative! Backyard bash, mountaintop elopement, or a ceremony on a giant inflatable swan in a pool (hey, no judgement)? The choice is yours!
Remember: Once you say "I do" and your officiant files the paperwork, BAM! You're officially hitched! Don't forget to grab a certified copy of your marriage license for future reference (like changing your name on official documents).
Now, let the champagne flow and the cake fly!
FAQs for the Soon-to-be-Wed Pennsylvanians:
How long is a marriage license valid in Pennsylvania?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
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Just 60 days, so don't wait too long to schedule your ceremony after you get your license.
How old do I need to be to get married in Pennsylvania?
The minimum age is 18. For teenagers under 18, parental consent is required.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
What if I've lost my marriage license?
No worries! You can apply for a replacement at the county office where you obtained the original license.
Do I need a blood test to get married in Pennsylvania?
Nope! Pennsylvania doesn't require blood tests for marriage.
Can I get married by someone who isn't ordained by a religion?
Absolutely! Magistrates and District Justices can perform civil ceremonies.
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