Getting Married in Harford County: Requirements for a Marriage License

The Bridal Tip

Getting married is an exciting milestone in life, and one of the first steps in the process is obtaining a marriage license. In Harford County, Maryland, there are specific requirements and procedures that couples must follow to obtain their marriage license. In this article, we will walk you through the process, from the necessary documents to the new changes in the marriage license laws.

To apply for a marriage license in Harford County, both parties must appear in person at the Harford County License Department. They must bring valid photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID. This is to ensure that the individuals applying for the marriage license are who they claim to be.

In addition to identification, the couple will need to provide their full names, addresses, and age at the time of application. If either party is under the age of 18, proof of age is required. This could be a birth certificate or another official government-issued document that demonstrates their age.

It is important to note that the marriage license is not effective immediately upon issuance. There is a waiting period of 48 hours, and the license becomes effective at 6 a.m. on the second day following its issuance. During this waiting period, no marriage ceremony may take place unless special permission is granted by a judge. This exception is typically for cases involving military service or pregnancy.

When applying for a marriage license in Harford County, Maryland, it is crucial to bring appropriate forms of identification for each person. This could include a driver’s license, birth certificate, or a passport. However, applicants who are 17 years old or younger are required to call the License Department before applying.

The fee for a marriage license in Harford County is $25.00, and it must be paid in cash. It is essential to come prepared with the correct amount to avoid any delays or complications. In Maryland, neither a blood test nor witnesses are required for obtaining a marriage license.

Effective October 1, 2022, there will be a change in the marriage license laws in Harford County. While only one party is required to apply for the marriage license, both parties must provide a copy of an official government-issued birth certificate or another official government-issued document or record that demonstrates their age. This change is aimed at ensuring that both individuals have proper documentation to verify their age.

Obtaining a marriage license in Harford County, Maryland, requires both parties to appear in person at the License Department and provide valid identification. The license has a waiting period of 48 hours before it becomes effective. The fee for the license is $25.00, payable in cash. Starting from October 1, 2022, both parties must also provide official government-issued documents demonstrating their age. By following these guidelines and fulfilling the necessary requirements, couples can successfully obtain their marriage license and take the first step towards their happily ever after.

What Do You Need To Get A Marriage License In Harford County Maryland?

To obtain a marriage license in Harford County, Maryland, you will need to gather the following information and documents:

1. Valid photo identification: You must provide a driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID that includes a clear photo of yourself.

2. Full names: Both you and your partner will need to provide your full legal names as they appear on your identification documents.

3. Addresses: You will be required to provide your current residential addresses.

4. Age at the time of application: If either you or your partner is under the age of 18, you will need to provide proof of age. Acceptable documents may include a birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identification indicating your date of birth.

5. State/Country of Birth: You will need to provide the state or country where you and your partner were born.

6. Social Security Number: This is mandatory as per the code in Harford County. You will be asked to provide your Social Security Number.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and process for obtaining a marriage license may vary from county to county within Maryland. Therefore, it is advisable to contact the Harford County Clerk’s Office or visit their website for the most up-to-date information on the application process, fees, and any additional requirements.

harford county marriage license

Can You Get A Marriage License And Get Married The Same Day In Maryland?

In Maryland, you cannot get a marriage license and get married on the same day. There is a waiting period that must be observed before the marriage license becomes effective. The license is not valid until 6 a.m. on the second day following the day it was issued. This waiting period is in place to ensure that couples have time to consider their decision and make any necessary arrangements for their marriage ceremony.

During the waiting period, no marriage ceremony can be held unless special permission is granted by a judge. This special permission is typically only given in cases of military service or pregnancy. In all other cases, the waiting period must be observed before the marriage can take place.

It is important to note that the waiting period applies to all couples seeking to get married in Maryland, regardless of their circumstances. This regulation is in place to ensure that both parties have adequate time to prepare for their marriage and make any necessary arrangements.

What Documents Do I Need To Get A Marriage License In Maryland?

To obtain a marriage license in Maryland, you will need to provide certain documents as proof of identification. The acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, a birth certificate, or a passport. It is important to note that applicants who are 17 years old or younger must call the License Department prior to applying.

Here is a breakdown of the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Maryland:

1. Identification: You must present a valid driver’s license, a certified copy of your birth certificate, or a passport to establish your identity.

2. Age verification: If you or your partner are 17 years old or younger, you must contact the License Department before applying for a marriage license.

3. Fee: There is a fee of $25.00 for obtaining a marriage license in Maryland. Please note that the payment must be made in cash.

4. Blood test: Maryland does not require a blood test for obtaining a marriage license.

5. Witnesses: Unlike some states, Maryland does not require witnesses for obtaining a marriage license.

To summarize, when applying for a marriage license in Maryland, you will need to bring a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport. Additionally, applicants who are 17 years old or younger must call the License Department beforehand. The fee for a marriage license is $25.00, payable in cash. Maryland does not require a blood test or witnesses for obtaining a marriage license.

Do Both Parties Have To Be Present To Get A Marriage License In Maryland?

Both parties do not have to be present to obtain a marriage license in Maryland. As of October 1, 2022, only one party is required to apply for the marriage license. However, both parties must provide a copy of an official government-issued birth certificate or another official government-issued document or record demonstrating their age.

– Starting from October 1, 2022, only one party needs to apply for a marriage license in Maryland.
– Both parties are not required to be present during the application process.
– Each party must submit a copy of an official government-issued birth certificate or another official government-issued document or record to verify their age.

The purpose of this change in the marriage license laws is to streamline the application process by reducing the requirement for both parties to be physically present.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Harford County, Maryland requires several important documents and information. Couples must provide valid photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID. Full names, addresses, and proof of age are also required, with special requirements for applicants under the age of 18.

It is important to note that the marriage license is not effective until 6 a.m. on the second day following its issuance. During the waiting period, no marriage ceremony can take place unless special permission is granted by a judge. This exception is typically given for reasons such as military service or pregnancy.

When applying for a marriage license, both parties must present forms of identification, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport. It is essential to contact the License Department prior to applying if either party is 17 years old or younger. The fee for a marriage license is $25.00, payable in cash.

It is worth mentioning that Maryland does not require a blood test or witnesses for marriage license applications. However, starting from October 1, 2022, there will be a change in the marriage license laws in Harford County. While only one party is required to apply for the license, both parties must provide a copy of an official government-issued birth certificate or other document demonstrating their age.

The process of obtaining a marriage license in Harford County requires attention to detail and the submission of necessary documents. By following the guidelines and requirements set forth by the county, couples can ensure a smooth and legal marriage process.