So You're Tying the Knot in Oklahoma: How to Get Your Marriage License Without a Hitch (or Hitches, We Hope)
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half (unless you're into polyamory, in which case, this guide might need some tweaking). Now it's time to make it official with a marriage license. But fear not, Oklahoma lovebirds, getting your license is easier than wrestling a greased pig at the state fair (although that sounds like fun too).
How To Get A Marriage Licence In Oklahoma |
Cupid's Checklist: Essential Documents
First things first, you'll need to gather some documents to prove you're not outlaws on the run (or already married to someone else). Here's what the lovely folks at the courthouse will be asking for:
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
- Valid ID: Think driver's license, passport, government ID – anything that screams "Yes, I am who I say I am!"
- Certified Birth Certificate: This is your official entry into the world, so dust it off and make sure it's certified (not just a photocopy of your mom's framed copy).
- Parental Permission (if 16 or 17): If you're on the younger side, you'll need a parent or guardian to come down and say, "Yep, they're old enough for this." Maybe they'll even throw in a tearful congratulations (or a box of tissues).
Pro Tip: If you're feeling fancy, you can bring a witness or two. Not required, but they can add a fun layer of "I was there when they did the thing!"
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
The Age Game: When Can You Say "I Do?"
In Oklahoma, love knows (almost) no age limits:
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
- 18 and Up: This is the golden ticket. You're good to go, no waiting required (except maybe in line at the courthouse).
- 16 and 17: You'll need your parents' permission, and there's a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before you can tie the knot. So maybe use that time for some last-minute engagement photos or a killer prenup (just kidding... mostly).
- Under 16: Nope. Not happening. Oklahoma isn't down with child brides (or grooms), so wait a few years, Romeo and Juliet.
The Premarital Prep Talk: To Counsel or Not to Counsel
Oklahoma doesn't require a blood test, but they do offer a premarital counseling discount on your marriage license. It's like buying in bulk, but for marital bliss (hopefully).
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
- With Counseling: Get a certificate showing you completed a premarital counseling program within the last 6 months, and your license fee drops to a sweet $5.
- Without Counseling: The standard price is $50. Still not bad for a lifetime commitment (hopefully).
Where to Get Your License: Courthouse Capers
The beauty of Oklahoma is you can get your marriage license in any county courthouse. So if you're eloping to Tulsa or getting hitched in Hinton, you're good to go.
Pro Tip: Call your local courthouse beforehand to check their hours and make sure they have everything in stock (because, you know, marriage licenses are like the hot new fidget spinner – everyone wants one).
Super-Important Note: Don't forget to return your signed license to the courthouse that issued it – otherwise, your marriage might not be official. That would put a damper on the whole cake-cutting thing.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions for the Frustrated Fianc�(e)
- How to find my local courthouse? A quick Google search with "Oklahoma [your county] courthouse" should do the trick.
- How long does the marriage license last? Once you get your license, it's good for 30 days. So don't procrastinate like you did with that term paper in college.
- What if I've been married before? Oklahoma requires a 6-month waiting period after a divorce before you can remarry. So take some time for yourself, and maybe don't wear white to the second wedding (it's a tradition, kind of).
- Can I renew my marriage license? Nope. If the 30 days expire, you'll need to start the whole process over again.
- Can we get married by Elvis? Well, not exactly Elvis, but Oklahoma does allow licensed officiants to perform weddings. So find someone who can legally pronounce you husband and wife, even