So You're Saying "I Do" in Boston? Let's Get Licensed!
Congratulations! You've found your lobster (or better yet, the butter on your lobster roll). Now it's time to tie the knot in the historic and charming city of Boston. But before the cake cutting and confetti throwing, there's a crucial step: snagging that marriage license. Don't worry, it's not brain surgery (although apparently some wedding planning can feel that way!). Here's how to get your official "permission to party" in Beantown.
How To Get A Marriage License In Boston |
Appointment Shenanigans: Booking Your Big Day (Sort Of)
Forget waiting in line with butterflies in your stomach (or was that just the pre-wedding jitters?). Boston operates on an appointment system for marriage licenses. This means you gotta head online and snag a time slot. Don't worry, it's not like trying to get tickets to the hottest band in town (although with the right partner, maybe your wedding will be just as epic).
Pro tip: Be flexible with your date and time. Those coveted Friday afternoon slots disappear faster than a cannoli at a summer fiesta.
The Paper Trail: A Love Story in Bureaucracy
Now, for the fun part (just kidding, kind of). You'll need to fill out a form called a Notice of Intention of Marriage. Think of it as your official declaration of "we're getting hitched!" Gather your documents like proof of ID (driver's license or passport will do) and your social security number (or a reason why you don't have one).
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
Fun Fact: Did you know your social security number isn't required to get married in Massachusetts? Just another reason to love this quirky state!
The Big Day (Part Two): License to Thrill (or Chill)
Once your appointment arrives, head to Boston City Hall with your partner in crime (or should we say, crime of passion?). The clerk will review your paperwork, and if everything checks out, you'll walk away with your marriage license - the holy grail of wedded bliss (well, almost).
There's just one tiny detail: a mandatory three-day waiting period. Think of it as a forced cooling-off period to make sure you're absolutely, positively, without-a-doubt sure about saying "I do."
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
But hey, at least you have those three days to perfect your dance moves for the reception!
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to make an appointment for a marriage license in Boston?
Head to the City of Boston website and use their online booking tool.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
How much does a marriage license cost in Boston?
The current fee is a steal at $150.
Do I need to be a resident of Boston to get married there?
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
Nope! Love knows no city limits (although you do need to get the license in Massachusetts).
How long is a marriage license valid for in Massachusetts?
You have between 3 and 60 days to use your license after you get it.
Can someone else officiate my wedding in Boston?
Absolutely! Massachusetts allows anyone with a one-day designation to perform your ceremony.
Now that you're armed with this knowledge, you're well on your way to wedded bliss in Boston. Just remember, the most important ingredient for a successful marriage is love, laughter, and maybe a few extra slices of that wedding cake. Cheers to your happily ever after!