How to Get Married Legally in Ohio, The Buckeye State
Although your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life, certain aspects of the planning process can be stressful, such as obtaining a marriage license. Knowing the proper protocol and required documents ahead of time, on the other hand, is a wise approach to minimize the stress of planning.
In today’s blog, we’ll show our engaged couple how to legally marry in one of America’s most beautiful states: Ohio! To obtain a marriage license legally in the state of Ohio, you must follow specific procedures. Fortunately, if you understand the basics, the Ohio marriage license process is relatively simple. With this overview of the Ohio marriage license process, you’ll be ready to begin planning your special day in Buckeye State.
Let’s begin!
The process is simple to get married in Ohio lawfully, but because of Covid19, some may experience delays or discomfort while processing. However, it is critical to follow the steps in the correct order. Everything you need to know about the legal requirements and how to get married in Ohio is right here.
The couple may go to the county’s Probate Court in which one of the couples resides. If neither of you is a resident of Ohio, you must apply in the county where the marriage plan to solemnized. Due to Covid19, the couple may also file their pre-application online for scheduling of appointments. You may then be required to call or email to schedule your interview.
Once the couple has confirmed the schedule, they must be present physically to the Country’s Probate Court.
The couple must present valid identification and proof of residencies, a readable and clear government-issued photo ID. These IDs can be a state ID card, driver’s license, visas, passport, or military ID. In addition, some counties require a Social Security card.
Any divorced applicants must bring a certified copy of the most recent divorce decree. In addition, the names, places, and case numbers of the divorce and any minor children from that marriage should provide details to their application. In addition, if the marriage ended due to the other spouse’s death, a certified copy of the death certificate is required.
You must also bring money with you, because it costs between $40 and $75, depending on the county. In addition, your marriage license is suitable for 60 days, so you must get married within that time!
Anyone can marry in the state of Ohio; you do not have to be a resident. At the same time, non-residents must apply in the county where the wedding ceremony will take place. For residents, you can file your application in either applicant’s county. There is no waiting period in Ohio, meaning you can get married the same day.
The couple must be on the legal age of 18 years old to obtain the marriage license. However, if you are 17, you must obtain judicial consent from Juvenile Court, and you and your future spouse cannot be more than four years apart in age. Because of underage, a couple may also require marriage counseling. Also, keep in mind that parties seeking to marry cannot be closer of kin than second cousins.
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Who can officiate at a wedding? In the state of Ohio, specific, named categories of people are authorized to solemnize marriages. Ordained or licensed ministers of any religious society, specified judges, and mayors can perform your ceremony. Marriage proxy is not allowed. Your signed certificate of marriage should send to the Probate Court within 30 days to avoid any problems. To obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate, contact the Probate Court that issued your marriage license by phone or email. You must provide both parties’ first and last names, including any maiden name. Also, the date of the marriage and remember there is a small fee to pay, so you need to bring cash with you.
Where to get married? A permit to hold your ceremony or reception in one of Ohio’s beautiful state parks, such as Cedar Falls or Hocking Hills State Park, may be required in addition to your marriage license. Call or write to the park office well in advance to ensure that your preferred date is available. But, don’t worry, one of the best things about picking Ohio as your wedding destination is the diversity of locations and options available. Of course, a couple can explore well-known cities, such as Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. Columbus, Ohio’s state capital and largest city, offers magnificent and spectacular wedding ceremony settings indoors and outdoors.
We hope that all of the information is useful to our engaged couple—those who want to marry in the Buckeye State of Ohio. Continue to follow us on Instagram, and feel free to pin to our Pinterest board.