So You Wanna Get Hitched in Oklahoma: A Guide for Soon-to-be Sooner Spouses
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to take the plunge and tie the knot in the beautiful state of Oklahoma. But before you get swept away in a whirlwind of Pinterest boards and cake tastings (both crucial, don't get us wrong), there's a little legalese to navigate. Fear not, fellow funny bones, because this guide will break down getting married in Oklahoma with more humor than your uncle's toast at the reception.
How To Get Legally Married In Oklahoma |
The Age Game: Not Too Young, Not Too… Actually There’s No Upper Limit
Unlike that time you accidentally used super glue instead of hairspray (we've all been there), there's no minimum age requirement to officiate a wedding in Oklahoma. But for the happy couple, you gotta be 18 or older. Unless, of course, you're channeling your inner Romeo and Juliet (minus the whole tragic end thing), in which case, if you're 16 or 17, you'll need parental consent and a waiting period of 72 hours after getting your license. Don't worry, that just gives you more time to break in those dancing shoes.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
The License to Thrill (or Should We Say Chill?)
Here's where things get exciting (or maybe a touch bureaucratic, depending on your personality). You'll need to head down to your local county clerk's office, like a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde, except instead of robbing banks, you're robbing hearts... with a marriage license. Both of you gotta show up in person with valid ID (think driver's license, passport, that library card you haven't returned in, you get the idea). The good news? Oklahoma is all about skipping the hassle. There are no residency requirements or blood tests needed.
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Now, here's the best part: Oklahoma offers a discount for lovebirds who believe in the power of premarital counseling (and saving a few bucks). If you complete an approved program, your license fee drops from $50 to a sweet $5.
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Important Note: If you've recently been through a heart-wrenching divorce, Oklahoma law says you gotta wait six months before you can say "I do" again. So grab a pint of ice cream, some rom-coms, and embrace the single life for a hot minute.
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
The Ceremony Shuffle: Gettin' Hitched Sooner Style
Alright, so you've got your license, you've figured out your guest list (minus Uncle Steve, the guy who always tells inappropriate jokes), now it's time for the main event! The ceremony itself can be held anywhere in Oklahoma that tickles your fancy, as long as you have an authorized officiant to make it official. This could be a judge, a minister, even a friend who's gotten ordained online (just make sure they're not secretly plotting a Lord of the Rings-themed ceremony, unless that's your thing). Remember, your license is only valid for 10 days, so don't get cold feet and postpone things indefinitely (unless it's to elope to Vegas, that's always an option).
Happily Ever After (with Some Paperwork)
Once you've sealed the deal with a kiss (or a high five, whatever floats your boat), the fun doesn't stop there. You'll need to return your completed marriage license to the county clerk's office within 10 days of the ceremony. This little piece of paper is what officially makes you a married couple, so don't lose it under the couch cushions with the remote control!
FAQ: Oklahoma Hitching Edition
- How to save money on a marriage license in Oklahoma? Complete an approved premarital counseling program and enjoy a discounted license fee of $5.
- How long is a marriage license valid in Oklahoma? A whopping 10 days, so don't wait too long to get hitched!
- What do I need to bring to get a marriage license in Oklahoma? Valid ID for both parties and a willingness to commit (and maybe $50, unless you went the premarital counseling route).
- Do I need to live in Oklahoma to get married there? Nope, residency requirements are non-existent in the Sooner State.
- Who can officiate a wedding in Oklahoma? Judges, ministers, and even friends who get ordained online (just make sure they're legit).