Marriage License Basics

A marriage license is essentially a permit; legal confirmation that the couple are free to marry each other, have obtained divorce or widowhood papers if necessary, are of legal age (18 years old in the state of NH), and have had blood tests done if necessary. The license pick-up locations varies by state. For New Hampshire, contact any City or Town Clerks Office.

Call ahead with any questions you have. Licenses are valid for 90 days in New Hampshire and there is a 3 day waiting period after you get the license. In most states you can walk in to apply, but some require an appointment, so ask when you call. Both the bride and groom must be present in most states, although there are a few exceptions.

You will probably need:

New Hampshire Laws regarding marriage.

• Birth Certificates (proof of age)
  


• Proof of citizenship and/or residence
  


• Photo identification
  


• Parental consent if underage
  (usually 16-17; you may also need court consent)
  


• Death certificate if widowed
  


• Divorce decree if divorced
  


• Blood test results (if needed; only a few states still require this.
  New Hampshire does not)
  

After the wedding, your officiant will send your signed license to the marriage license bureau. You will receive a certified copy within a few weeks or months.