Tying the Knot in Oklahoma: How Much Does Your "I Do" Cost?
So you've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half (or maybe just the person who tolerates your weird sock collection). Congratulations! Now it's time to make it official and tie the knot in beautiful Oklahoma. But before you get swept away in a whirlwind of Pinterest boards and cake tastings, there's a little detail to consider: the marriage license.
The All-Important Marriage License: Not Your Average Fishing Permit
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Think of your marriage license as your official "go ahead and get hitched" permission slip from the state. Without it, your ceremony might be more of a fancy commitment ceremony (which, hey, no judgment if that's your thing!). But for most folks, a legit marriage license is key.
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So, how much does this magical piece of paper cost? Buckle up, lovebirds, because the answer depends on how much you love paperwork (or how much you procrastinated on premarital counseling).
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The Regular Rate: $50 - This is the standard price for your basic marriage license. Think of it as the "single and ready to mingle" option on the dating app of marriage licenses.
The "We Prepped for Forever" Discount: $5 - Ah, romance and responsibility collide! If you and your partner complete a state-approved premarital counseling course, you can snag a sweet discount on your marriage license. Pro tip: This class might actually be fun (or at least informative) and could even help you avoid some future fights about whose turn it is to take out the trash.
But Wait, There's More! (Because There Almost Always Is)
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Before you head to the courthouse with cash in hand (or your plastic fantastic), here are a few more things to keep in mind:
Cash is King (or Queen): In most Oklahoma counties, credit cards and checks aren't accepted for marriage licenses. So channel your inner Benjamin Franklin and be prepared to pay with good ol' fashioned greenbacks.
Shop Around (Sort Of): The price of a marriage license is set by the state, but some counties might tack on a small additional fee. It's usually not a huge amount, but if you're on a tight budget, a quick call to your local courthouse can't hurt.
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute: Your marriage license is good for 30 days, but that doesn't mean you should wait until the night before your wedding to get it. Trust us, on your wedding day, the last thing you want to worry about is a mad dash to the courthouse.
Hitched FAQ: Your Burning Marriage License Questions Answered
How to Find a State-Approved Premarital Counseling Course? A quick web search for "Oklahoma approved premarital counseling" should do the trick.
How Long Does Premarital Counseling Take? The length of the course can vary, but it's usually a few hours spread out over several weeks.
What if We Don't Want to Do Premarital Counseling? That's totally your call! Just be prepared to shell out the full $50 for your marriage license.
Can We Get Married Online in Oklahoma? Nope. As of now, Oklahoma requires you to appear in person to apply for a marriage license.
We Eloped to Vegas. Do We Need an Oklahoma Marriage License? If you plan to live in Oklahoma, you'll need to get a certified copy of your marriage license from the county where you were married.
There you have it, folks! Now you're armed with the knowledge (and hopefully the cash) to get your Oklahoma marriage license and embark on your happily ever after. Just remember, even if you hit a few bumps in the road, at least you only paid $5 (or $50) for the license, not a lifetime subscription!