Lost Your Marriage License? Don't Panic! Here's How to Replace Your Ticket to wedded bliss (in Philly)
Let's face it, between the in-laws, the ever-growing laundry pile, and that time you accidentally dyed your poodle fuchsia (we've all been there), it's easy to lose track of important documents. But fear not, lovebirds of Philadelphia! Replacing your misplaced marriage license is a breeze, easier than navigating a cheesesteak without getting cheese whiz on your shirt.
Here's your guide to reclaiming proof of your everlasting love (or at least a pretty good weekend in 2012).
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| How To Obtain A Copy Of Marriage License In Philadelphia Pa |
Channel Your Inner Superhero: The In-Person Retrieval
Think of yourself as Clark Kent venturing into Metropolis, except your phone booth is the Register of Wills at City Hall. Here's what you'll need for this heroic feat:
- Your trusty steed (a.k.a. your car or a SEPTA pass): Because let's be honest, walking everywhere is exhausting, especially after a cheesesteak.
- Your secret weapon (a.k.a. ID): Driver's license, passport, you get the idea.
- Crime-fighting knowledge (a.k.a. some basic info): Your name(s) and the approximate date of your wedding (within a decade is probably good enough).
- Super speed (well, not exactly, but patience): The Register of Wills is open weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
**Once there, head to the Marriage Record Department and tell them you'd like a certified copy (that's the most common one and costs a cool $25). They'll whip you up a copy in a flash, and you'll be back on your lovey-dovey way!
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
Unleash Your Inner Mastermind: The Mail-Order Mission
Feeling more Professor X than Superman? No problem! You can mastermind your way to a new marriage license from the comfort of your couch. Here's your master plan:
- Gather your intel (download the Marriage Record Request Form): You can find it on the City of Philadelphia website [find and request a marriage record ON City of Philadelphia (.gov) phila.gov].
- Decode the message (fill out the form): Pretty straightforward stuff, but hey, even geniuses need a roadmap sometimes.
- The Money Laser (a.k.a. money order for $25): Make it payable to "Clerk of Orphans' Court" (sounds fancy, right?).
- Dispatch the carrier pigeon (mail it all in): Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for your new marriage license to return home.
Expect your happily-ever-after document to arrive within 7-10 business days. Easy peasy!
Important Note: There is also an "exemplified copy" option for $50, which comes with a fancy seal and is ideal for official use outside of Pennsylvania. Think of it as the VIP package of marriage record copies.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Marriage License FAQs
How to find out if I need a certified or exemplified copy?
The certified copy ($25) is usually enough for most situations. If you need it for official use outside of Pennsylvania, then the exemplified copy ($50) is the way to go.
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How long does it take to get a copy by mail?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
Allow 7-10 business days for your marriage record to arrive by mail.
Can someone else request a copy of my marriage license on my behalf?
Yes, as long as they have the required information (names, date of marriage) and a valid ID.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
What if my marriage license was issued before 1995?
Contact the Philadelphia County Court for assistance in obtaining a copy.
I lost my marriage license, but I also lost my ID. Can I still get a copy?
You will need to provide some other form of identification that proves your identity. This could be a social security card, utility bill with your name and address, etc.
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