Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Available to any couple, regardless of residency. Valid for 6 months from the date of issue. There's a 72-hour waiting period between application and issuance.
Identical to regular marriage licenses. Available to same-sex couples since 2013.
Available for military personnel stationed overseas. One partner can appear in person while the other participates remotely.
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Apply for a New Jersey marriage license at the local registrar's office in the municipality where either partner resides. If neither lives in New Jersey, apply in the town where the marriage will take place.
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Apply for a New Jersey marriage license at the Local Registrar's office in the municipality where either partner resides. If neither lives in New Jersey, apply in the municipality where the wedding will take place. Out-of-state residents must apply in person.
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To apply for a New Jersey marriage license while outside the U.S., contact the New Jersey Department of Health's Office of Vital Statistics and Registry. They can provide guidance on remote application procedures or direct you to the appropriate local registrar.
No matter where you’re located, Courtly simplifies the process, helping you secure your online marriage license easily and legally.
Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.
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Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.
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Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.
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Most offices issue licenses immediately, though some may take a few days. Confirm whether you’ll need to pick it up or if a digital copy is available.
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If your license expires before your wedding, you’ll need to reapply—and repay the fees again. Stay on top of the deadline to avoid extra hassle.
Both applicants must provide valid identification that proves their identity and age. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, or state/federal ID. At least one form of ID should have a photograph.
If either applicant is a New Jersey resident, they must provide proof of residency. This can be in the form of a driver's license, lease, tax return, or utility bill with the applicant's name and address.
Both applicants must provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant doesn't have a Social Security number, they must present a valid passport, visa, or green card.
If either applicant was previously married, they must provide proof of how the marriage ended. This can be a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse.
The names and addresses of the witnesses who will be present at the ceremony must be provided. New Jersey requires one witness, but two are recommended.
Applicants must be prepared to pay the marriage license fee, which varies by municipality. Most places accept cash, while some may accept credit cards or money orders.
Certain cases need more paperwork
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Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.
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Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.
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Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.
Detailed step by step application process
Or, skip the courthouse entirely!
Apply for a U.S. marriage license entirely online and have your ceremony officiated by
a licensed professional—all from the comfort of your home.
