In my last article, I began discussing marriage license and law basics. In these basics, I described how each state has its own specific rules but most states follow the same basic outline of marriage license regulations.
Teen Marriages
There are not many states or countries that make it easy for teens to get married without the permission of their parents. In most states, under age persons need the signature of both their mother and father (even if they are divorced) to get a marriage license. Some states require a waiting period and an order from a judge if the waiting period is to be waived.
Blood Tests
In the past, many states required a blood test and/or an exam before a marriage license could be issues. That rule has been discarded by most states today.
Marriage Counseling
Some states do not ask that the couple go through marriage counseling. If the couple does not go through a series of marriage counseling, the license can often be bought at a higher price. Many officiants also ask for the couple to attend marriage counseling before he married them.
Common Law Marriages
Many states in the United States of America no longer accept common law marriages.
Proxy Marriages
Most states no longer recognize proxy marriages. In the states that do allow it, there are many rules and guidelines to follow.
Cousin Marriages
While some other countries allow cousins to marry, most of the states in the USA do not.
Same Sex Marriages
Many states have laws to prevent same sex couples from marrying. There are a few states that allow it.
States may change their laws and rules about marriage license from time to time. Always check well in advance to find out what you will need. If you plan to marry in a different state than where you live, never assume that the rules will be the same as in your state. Contact that state as ask questions about what typed of identification you will need. Be certain to ask about guideline to follow.
Marriage Laws