marriage license philadelphia pa

Getting a Marriage License in Philadelphia, PA: What You Need to Know

A marriage license is a legal document required to get married in Pennsylvania. In Philadelphia, the process involves applying in person, providing necessary documentation, and adhering to a waiting period before the license can be issued. Understanding these steps is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience.

Planning to tie the knot in the City of Brotherly Love? This guide walks you through the process of obtaining a marriage license in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a marriage license in Pennsylvania, both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, they will need parental consent. Generally, applicants must also be of sound mind and not closely related. Additional details on legal requirements can be found on Wikipedia’s marriage license entry.

Application Process

In Philadelphia, both applicants must appear in person at the Marriage License Bureau. As of the last update, only one location is available:

City Hall, Room 413
1400 John F Kennedy Blvd
Philadelphia, PA 19107

Required Documents

Be prepared to present the following documents:

• Valid Photo ID: Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID.
• Social Security Card (if applicable).
• Divorce Decree (if previously divorced).
• Death Certificate of a deceased spouse (if applicable).

You will also need to know the names, dates and places of birth, and current addresses of both applicants.

Fees and Payment Methods

As of the last update, the fee for a marriage license in Philadelphia is around $90. Accepted forms of payment vary, so it’s best to contact the Marriage License Bureau directly or check their website for current accepted methods. Credit card, money order, or certified check are typically accepted.

Waiting Period and License Validity

There is a mandatory three-day waiting period after applying before the license can be issued. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, meaning the marriage ceremony must take place within that timeframe in Pennsylvania.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for a marriage license online in Philadelphia?

No, both applicants must appear in person at the Marriage License Bureau to apply.

2. What if one of us is unable to appear in person?

In most cases, both applicants are required to be present. Contact the Marriage License Bureau directly to discuss specific circumstances.

3. How long does it take to get a marriage license in Philadelphia?

There is a three-day waiting period after application, and the license is valid for 60 days after issuance.

4. What if we get married outside of Pennsylvania?

The marriage license obtained in Philadelphia is only valid for marriages performed in Pennsylvania. If you plan to marry outside of Pennsylvania, you need to obtain a marriage license from the jurisdiction where the ceremony will take place.

5. Do we need a blood test to get married in Philadelphia?

No, blood tests are not required for marriage licenses in Pennsylvania.

Summary

Obtaining a marriage license in Philadelphia requires in-person application, proper documentation, and adherence to a three-day waiting period. By understanding the requirements and preparing accordingly, couples can ensure a smooth start to their married life.