Marriage license Laws in the state of North Dakota, here is what you need to bring with you, and what you need to know about the North Dakota marriage laws before filling out the North Dakota marriage license form.

In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. This is the document in your state that allows you to officially tie the knot under the law. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.

You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.

When you apply for your license, you'll not only need a proof of identification and age, will need to provide any information about previous marriages, and will need to pay a nominal fee. You will also need to have a witness when you sign the application, so plan on bringing your maid of honor or best man with you. The bride will need to know what her married name will be before she signs the marriage certificate. You'll have to write that name on the application.

And, believe it or not, just because you have your marriage license sent to you in the mail does not mean you are officially married. You need to have a justice of the peace or a religious clergyman sign the document. On your wedding day, you'll give your chaplain your marriage license, then after the ceremony, he'll sign it and send it to the proper government agency for validation.

ID Requirement: Picture ID is required of each, i.e. Drivers License or certified copy of Birth Certificate.

If previously married: State Law requires that we receive a certified copy of the Divorce Decree to keep with the Marriage License Application.

If widowed: State Law requires that we receive a plain copy of the Death Certificate of the deceased spouse.

Application Requirement: Both parties to a marriage should appear in person to obtain the license.

Under 18: If a person is between sixteen and eighteen years of age, a marriage license may not be issued without the consent of the parents or guardian. This requires a notarized statement. (This form available at the office that issues Marriage License).

A marriage license may not be issued to any person below the age of sixteen, notwithstanding the consent of the parents or guardian of said person.

Fees: $35 - Cash Only.

Waiting Period: No waiting period.

Blood Tests: No tests.

Common Law Marriage: No.

Cousin Marriage: No.

Same Sex Marriage: No.

Officiants: Ordained ministers of the gospel and priests of every church may perform marriages. Ministers must file a certificate of marriage with the county judge who issued the license within 5 days after the marriage. Certificates must also be given to the persons married.

Valid: License is valid for 60 days.
The license can only be used within the State of North Dakota.

Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

North Dakota Clerk's Office