How to Get Legally Married In Indy!
UPDATE 6/14/2021 FOR MARION COUNTY
Starting June 23, 2021 you will be able to walk into the Marion County Clerks office and obtain a marriage license!! You still need to wear a mask in the City County Building but you don't need an appointment!
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I'm Victoria Meyer and I own Marry Me In Indy! LLC I'm a wedding officiant located on Monument Circle. I've married thousands of couples and the person who usually knows - I'm the person people will send you to in order to find easy answers to questions about getting married in Indy. This update is to help answer the most current questions about obtaining a marriage license in Marion County. |
Tips from from a professional, experienced Indiana wedding officiant to make obtaining an Indiana marriage license quick and easy.
Please keep in mind, every county has their own procedures. The State has one general website where you apply for your marriage license but each county processes marriage license their own way. It is the COUNTY WEBSITE and YOUR County Clerk's procedures that are important. Keep in mind local websites may not be update.
Please keep in mind, every county has their own procedures. The State has one general website where you apply for your marriage license but each county processes marriage license their own way. It is the COUNTY WEBSITE and YOUR County Clerk's procedures that are important. Keep in mind local websites may not be update.
This is the most current procedure for Marion County
- Click here to Apply for a marriage license online .
- You can still schedule a virtual appointment if you prefer. Virtual appointments will be on Mondays, starting June 28, 2021. Click here to schedule a virtual appointment.
- If you still require a virtual appointment and no appointment is available to book online and wedding date is within two weeks, email marriage@indy.gov.
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The Hamilton County Clerk is also issuing marriage licenses by appointment only. In-person and virtual appointments are available. Here is a link to their current process: https://www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/468/Marriage-Licenses
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The Hamilton County Clerk is also issuing marriage licenses by appointment only. In-person and virtual appointments are available. Here is a link to their current process: https://www.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/468/Marriage-Licenses
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We are almost back to normal!!!
And YES! You can get married TODAY in Indy! $50!!
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Congratulations On Your Upcoming Wedding!
My name is Victoria Meyer and I have been marrying couples in Indiana for over 11 years. I've married thousands of couples. Many of the weddings I have performed have been simple, legal civil ceremonies. This has giving me a lot of experience with the in's and out's of the marriage license process.
Indiana marriage laws are extremely liberal. You can get married today if you want to. There is no waiting period and no witnesses required. I've created this handy guide to make getting married today, or any any day, in Indiana as painless as possible. The focus should be on your love, not red tape!
Indiana marriage laws are extremely liberal. You can get married today if you want to. There is no waiting period and no witnesses required. I've created this handy guide to make getting married today, or any any day, in Indiana as painless as possible. The focus should be on your love, not red tape!
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Disclaimer:
First of all, just don't take my word for it. All of this legal information comes from the state website. You can view that directly here: https://www.in.gov/judiciary/2605.htm . I've created this web page to hopefully make understanding everything easier. Hopefully, I will answer any questions you might have. I have asked a lot of questions and helped couples fix a lot of problems.
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The Basics
These 5 steps are all the information most people need. If you read further, I go into greater detail.
Follow this link and apply for your marriage license online.
- Go to your county clerk (both of you, together - this is true in every county but MARION. In Hamilton County you will also need an appointment but they offer in-person appointments.)
- Bring ID. As long as you both have a valid driver's license and one of them has your correct address - the address you used to apply for your marriage license - that's all you need.
- You will need to present your ID and provide the last for digits of your social security number so they can bring up your application online. If you are not a US resident and have no social security number, it's OK. You can still get married.
- Bring money! The fee is $18 for Indiana residents and $60 for non-residents. You will need additional money for certified copies. The Marion County Clerk accepts credit and debit cards but you will pay a transaction fee. Many counties only accept cash.
- Once you have your marriage license you need someone to marry you. If you are looking for an officiant, I'd be happy to marry you! www.MarryMeInIndy.com.
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Tangent warning! I've been marrying couples in Indiana for over 11 years. Over that time, I've collected a lot of knowledge. Too much knowledge for some people! I hope I've made the rest of this easy to understand an a little entertaining...
Indiana Marriage Laws
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Marriage is regulated on the state level in Indiana.
Indiana, like every state, has their own, unique marriage laws.
How marriages are regulated and performed in other states has nothing to do with Indiana. In fact, many of the procedures may have changes since you, or someone you know, last got married. How your mom got married then may not be the same as how you will get married now.
Indiana is a very easy state in which to get married.
We have no waiting period.
That means you can pick up your marriage license and get married all in the same day.
Witnesses are not required to get married in Indiana.
Tha makes Indiana a great place to get married in secret.
So if you are looking for a real secret elopement, Indy is great for that.
Every state has their own marriage laws but a legal marriage is legal in every state in the US. (And many other countries too!)
If you have been married in another state, don't assume we do the same things here in Indy.
How marriages are regulated and performed in other states has nothing to do with Indiana. In fact, many of the procedures may have changes since you, or someone you know, last got married. How your mom got married then may not be the same as how you will get married now.
Indiana is a very easy state in which to get married.
We have no waiting period.
That means you can pick up your marriage license and get married all in the same day.
Witnesses are not required to get married in Indiana.
Tha makes Indiana a great place to get married in secret.
So if you are looking for a real secret elopement, Indy is great for that.
Every state has their own marriage laws but a legal marriage is legal in every state in the US. (And many other countries too!)
If you have been married in another state, don't assume we do the same things here in Indy.
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County Regulations
Each county has their own way of interpreting the state marriage laws so each county has their own process for obtaining a marriage license. The basic laws are all the same but there are small things that may be different. I'm very familiar with the procedure in Marion and Hamilton Counties. Always contact YOUR county clerk to clarify anything.
Click here is a link to a PDF with all the county clerk's with addresses and phone numbers.
For example...
Johnson County requires that you have 2 forms of proof of your Johnson County address. The general law only requires one.
Some counties will have you pay for your certified copies when you apply for your marriage license and automatically send them to you. Marion County does NOT. You have to actually request and pay for the copies after you file your completed marriage license. Some counties charge $1 per copy, others $2.
Most counties will issue you a certified copy of your marriage license immediately, the Johnson County Clerk will not. They will only mail it to you.
If you have been divorced, you may need a certified copy of the divorce decree. It depends on how long you have been divorced. Some counties is 60 days, some it's 6 months.
Both of you need to pick up your marriage license in person - but some counties have procedures if one of you can't physically get to the clerk's office. (Most do not.)
Interesting fact: Many county clerk's will not issue a marriage license if one of you is incarcerated - so the prison may approve you to get married but you can't get a licenses because your county won't issue it because you both can't apply in person. If you live in Marion County - they will. Vigo County - for the Federal Prison in Terre Haute will. Madison County, serving the prisons in Pendleton will as well. Henry county will not.
Click here is a link to a PDF with all the county clerk's with addresses and phone numbers.
For example...
Johnson County requires that you have 2 forms of proof of your Johnson County address. The general law only requires one.
Some counties will have you pay for your certified copies when you apply for your marriage license and automatically send them to you. Marion County does NOT. You have to actually request and pay for the copies after you file your completed marriage license. Some counties charge $1 per copy, others $2.
Most counties will issue you a certified copy of your marriage license immediately, the Johnson County Clerk will not. They will only mail it to you.
If you have been divorced, you may need a certified copy of the divorce decree. It depends on how long you have been divorced. Some counties is 60 days, some it's 6 months.
Both of you need to pick up your marriage license in person - but some counties have procedures if one of you can't physically get to the clerk's office. (Most do not.)
Interesting fact: Many county clerk's will not issue a marriage license if one of you is incarcerated - so the prison may approve you to get married but you can't get a licenses because your county won't issue it because you both can't apply in person. If you live in Marion County - they will. Vigo County - for the Federal Prison in Terre Haute will. Madison County, serving the prisons in Pendleton will as well. Henry county will not.
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You have to apply for your marriage license online.
It's so much easier if you apply before you go to the clerk's office but you can use the computers in the office too. The application doesn't work on your phone. If you are applying Marion County is can be crowded around the computers.
Tip: If you are taking your time while filling out the online application, you can press the button for extra time so the page won't time out.
Tip: If you are taking your time while filling out the online application, you can press the button for extra time so the page won't time out.
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There is no waiting period!
You can get married TODAY in Indiana!
(Please keep in mind CURRENT COVID-19 Restriction)
As long as the county clerk is open, you can get married today. In less then an hour, if you time it right. You can apply for your marriage license online in the County Clerk's office, they will issue you the marriage license immediately and you can be married immediately too. Once you are married, you can file the marriage license and obtain your certified marriage license to legally prove your marriage. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO MARION COUNTY. YOU CAN GET MARRIED THE DAY YOU HAVE YOUR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT. YOU CANNOT GO INTO THE OFFICE AND JUST GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE LIKE YOU COULD PRE-COVID.
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READ THIS TOO!!!
You CAN NOT get married in most courthouses in Indiana. You will need to find your own wedding officiant to marry you. You definitely can not get married in the courthouse in Marion, Johnson, Hancock or Hendricks counties. I do offer a quick $50 Civil Ceremony in my office on Monument Circle - just a short walk from the Marion County Clerk - This can help make getting married quick and easy.
Johnson County will not issue you a certified copy of your marriage license immediately. They will only mail it to you. You will still be legally married but it will take time to get the final paperwork in the mail.
(Please keep in mind CURRENT COVID-19 Restriction)
As long as the county clerk is open, you can get married today. In less then an hour, if you time it right. You can apply for your marriage license online in the County Clerk's office, they will issue you the marriage license immediately and you can be married immediately too. Once you are married, you can file the marriage license and obtain your certified marriage license to legally prove your marriage. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO MARION COUNTY. YOU CAN GET MARRIED THE DAY YOU HAVE YOUR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT. YOU CANNOT GO INTO THE OFFICE AND JUST GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE LIKE YOU COULD PRE-COVID.
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READ THIS TOO!!!
You CAN NOT get married in most courthouses in Indiana. You will need to find your own wedding officiant to marry you. You definitely can not get married in the courthouse in Marion, Johnson, Hancock or Hendricks counties. I do offer a quick $50 Civil Ceremony in my office on Monument Circle - just a short walk from the Marion County Clerk - This can help make getting married quick and easy.
Johnson County will not issue you a certified copy of your marriage license immediately. They will only mail it to you. You will still be legally married but it will take time to get the final paperwork in the mail.
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You BOTH have to pick up your marriage license in person.
Getting married is entering into a legal contract. You both have to appear in person at the county clerk, prove who you are and swear that all the information on your application is true.
Some people think that if they apply online they'll receive a marriage license in the mail. It doesn't work that way.
Some people think that if they apply online they'll receive a marriage license in the mail. It doesn't work that way.
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Only a County Clerk can issue a marriage license.
A wedding officiant can't obtain your marriage license for you. Only you can do that. County Clerk's keep regular business hours so you can not get a marriage license on the weekend in Indiana. Many clerks are very strict about their hours. They may be open until 4:30 but stop issuing marriage licenses at 4. Call to be sure if you plan on leaving work early to get there before they close.
Every county clerk has different hours - including holiday hours. Contact YOUR county clerk to verify.
THIS IS PRE-COVID
The Hamilton County Clerk stops issuing marriage licenses at 4 PM. NO EXCEPTIONS
The Marion County Clerk required you be in the door by 4 PM if you already applied for your marriage license online. Be there by 3:30 if you are using the computers in their office.
THIS IS TO MY KNOWLEDGE 5/11/21
Once you have had your virtual appointment you can pick up your marriage license from the MARION COUNTY CLERK during business hours - INCLUDING the day you have your virtual appointment.
The HAMILTON COUNTY CLERK is issuing marriage licenses BY APPOINTMENT ONLY - Virtual or in-person. Same day appointment are not available.
Every county clerk has different hours - including holiday hours. Contact YOUR county clerk to verify.
THIS IS PRE-COVID
The Hamilton County Clerk stops issuing marriage licenses at 4 PM. NO EXCEPTIONS
The Marion County Clerk required you be in the door by 4 PM if you already applied for your marriage license online. Be there by 3:30 if you are using the computers in their office.
THIS IS TO MY KNOWLEDGE 5/11/21
Once you have had your virtual appointment you can pick up your marriage license from the MARION COUNTY CLERK during business hours - INCLUDING the day you have your virtual appointment.
The HAMILTON COUNTY CLERK is issuing marriage licenses BY APPOINTMENT ONLY - Virtual or in-person. Same day appointment are not available.
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You MUST obtain your marriage license from YOUR County Clerk.
If you, or the person you are marrying live in Indiana, you go to the county clerk in the county in which you live. You need to be able to prove you live in that county - that is prove the address in that county you are using to apply.
If you and the person you are marrying live in two different counties, you can go to either county clerk.
IF YOU LIVE IN INDIANA - you MUST obtain your marriage license in the county you live in. Then, you can get married anywhere in Indiana.
Only ONE of you needs to prove your address.
If you are waiting to change your name and update your drivers license, no worries! There other ways to prove your address.
If you don't live in Indiana you need to pick up your marriage license in the county in which you are being married. If you are from Indiana and your family still lives here but you don't and you no longer have an Indiana drivers license, you will need to apply as an out of state resident in the county in which you are being married.
COVID UPDATE
I was in the Hamilton County Clerk's office recently and they said many couples are trying to use their parent's address because they grew up in Hamilton County. If you are currently residing in Marion County and your driver's license has been updated with your Marion County address - and you have not other way to prove you actually reside in Hamilton County - you will have to wait and apply in Marion County.
If you and the person you are marrying live in two different counties, you can go to either county clerk.
IF YOU LIVE IN INDIANA - you MUST obtain your marriage license in the county you live in. Then, you can get married anywhere in Indiana.
Only ONE of you needs to prove your address.
If you are waiting to change your name and update your drivers license, no worries! There other ways to prove your address.
If you don't live in Indiana you need to pick up your marriage license in the county in which you are being married. If you are from Indiana and your family still lives here but you don't and you no longer have an Indiana drivers license, you will need to apply as an out of state resident in the county in which you are being married.
COVID UPDATE
I was in the Hamilton County Clerk's office recently and they said many couples are trying to use their parent's address because they grew up in Hamilton County. If you are currently residing in Marion County and your driver's license has been updated with your Marion County address - and you have not other way to prove you actually reside in Hamilton County - you will have to wait and apply in Marion County.
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Anyone can return a marriage license.
Your county clerk might tell you that your wedding officiant will return the marriage license for you. This is really up to the wedding officiant. You might want to take responsibility for the license yourself to make sure it's returned in a timely manner. If someone mails it for you that doesn't necessarily mean that the clerk is going to send you a certified copy. You may need to request them separately. It's an important document. Make sure it get's returned and you obtain copies in a timely manner. Things get lost in the mail. Papers get lot in the shuffle.
Personally, I only return marriage licenses for couples who book a formal wedding ceremony package. As part of that package I return the license in person to the Marion County Clerk and mail 2 certified copies. If I am mailing a marriage license to another county I will use registered mail to make sure it is delivered. If the license is lost, we can fix that problem, over time, I've learned it's just easier to return the license myself to make sure it's filed. If the certified copies get lost in the mail on the way to you they can easily be replaced, replacing the completed marriage license before it has been filed takes more time and effort.
Personally, I only return marriage licenses for couples who book a formal wedding ceremony package. As part of that package I return the license in person to the Marion County Clerk and mail 2 certified copies. If I am mailing a marriage license to another county I will use registered mail to make sure it is delivered. If the license is lost, we can fix that problem, over time, I've learned it's just easier to return the license myself to make sure it's filed. If the certified copies get lost in the mail on the way to you they can easily be replaced, replacing the completed marriage license before it has been filed takes more time and effort.
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Anyone can request a certified copy of a marriage license.
Your marriage and your marriage license is a public record. It's generally not posted anywhere to let the public know that you got married or that a license was issued but if someone goes looking for the information they can find it. To clarify this: They do not make public announcements in the newspaper that your marriage license has been issued. It's not in the Indy Star. I have heard that some very small towns may publish marriage licenses in their very small town newspaper. Just a rumor, not confirmed. If you are in Marion or Hamilton County, no worries!! Couples often come from out of state to avoid this happening in their home towns.
If you want to check if your marriage has been recorded - click here to access the database. Not all counties update the data base so your marriage may not show up. You can contact the Couty Clerk directly to ask if your marriage license has been filed.
You BOTH have to obtain your marriage license is person but ANYONE can return it for you and get copies.
I suggest getting 2 copies. You can always get more copies but you may as well get 2 from the start. Anyone who needs to see a certified copy will give it back to you. They may make a photo copy but they will give the original back.
The county clerk that recorded the marriage issues certified copies of marriage licenses. If you are trying to obtain a copy of an older marriage license you will need to contact the Indiana State Department of Vital Records. You can call them at (317) 233-2700 or visit their website here for more information on older records.
If you want to check if your marriage has been recorded - click here to access the database. Not all counties update the data base so your marriage may not show up. You can contact the Couty Clerk directly to ask if your marriage license has been filed.
You BOTH have to obtain your marriage license is person but ANYONE can return it for you and get copies.
I suggest getting 2 copies. You can always get more copies but you may as well get 2 from the start. Anyone who needs to see a certified copy will give it back to you. They may make a photo copy but they will give the original back.
The county clerk that recorded the marriage issues certified copies of marriage licenses. If you are trying to obtain a copy of an older marriage license you will need to contact the Indiana State Department of Vital Records. You can call them at (317) 233-2700 or visit their website here for more information on older records.
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Can LGBTQ couples get married in Indiana?
Yes! Indiana has been issuing marriage licenses to same gender couples in Indiana since October of 2014. The Supreme Court of the United States ruled on June 26, 2016 that same-gender marriage is legal in all 50 US States.
To my knowledge, no LGBTQ couple has had a bad experience obtaining an marriage license in Indiana - that lady on the news was in Kentucky.
As a wedding officiant, I want to make sure every couple has a positive and inclusive wedding experience. I welcome all couples. Contact me to schedule your wedding today!
To my knowledge, no LGBTQ couple has had a bad experience obtaining an marriage license in Indiana - that lady on the news was in Kentucky.
As a wedding officiant, I want to make sure every couple has a positive and inclusive wedding experience. I welcome all couples. Contact me to schedule your wedding today!
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The Nitty Gritty Legal Details Explained...
Who can get married in Indy?
Anyone 18 or older can get married in Indiana.
If you are 17, you can get married but your parents or guardians will neet to be there.
(I've married a 17 year old. Her dad was there. He was OK with it. She had a life plan.)
If you are under 17 you will need a court order to get married.
If you are 17, you can get married but your parents or guardians will neet to be there.
(I've married a 17 year old. Her dad was there. He was OK with it. She had a life plan.)
If you are under 17 you will need a court order to get married.
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You can only be married to one person at a time!
If you are already legally married, your divorce needs to be final before you can remarry.
For poly-amorous couples: You can only be legally married to one person. (Yes, I've been asked this question!)
For poly-amorous couples: You can only be legally married to one person. (Yes, I've been asked this question!)
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If you have been divorced less than 6 months you will need a certified copy of your divorce decree.
A certified copy has a stamp with a raised seal - Not a photo copy. Check with your county clerk to check their policy. If you are traveling in from out of state make sure you have this!
A certified copy has a stamp with a raised seal - Not a photo copy. Check with your county clerk to check their policy. If you are traveling in from out of state make sure you have this!
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You Can Not marry your cousin! (Or brother or Sister.)
Well, wait, you can marry your SECOND cousin. Just not your FIRST - unless you are over the age of 65. Yes, if you are over the age of 65 you can marry your first cousin in Indiana.
BUT - if you are wondering, you can never marry your first cousin in Kentucky! They won't even recognize your first cousin marriage - even if you got married in a state where it is legal! (We love you Kentucky!)
BUT - if you are wondering, you can never marry your first cousin in Kentucky! They won't even recognize your first cousin marriage - even if you got married in a state where it is legal! (We love you Kentucky!)
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You can be crazy in love, just not legally insane.
The legal statement is: "Either applicant has been judged to be of unsound mind, unless the adjudication has been removed."
True story: I once performed a wedding ceremony for a couple that was not getting legally married - they couldn't obtain a marriage license because the groom was legally insane. It's a legal disability!
Along with this particular statement - you have to be able to legally enter into a contract. So, if you have special needs and are a ward of your parents or another person, you are not able get married. You are of sound mind, you just need extra help with your decision making. You can have a ceremony, it's just not legal.
True story: I once performed a wedding ceremony for a couple that was not getting legally married - they couldn't obtain a marriage license because the groom was legally insane. It's a legal disability!
Along with this particular statement - you have to be able to legally enter into a contract. So, if you have special needs and are a ward of your parents or another person, you are not able get married. You are of sound mind, you just need extra help with your decision making. You can have a ceremony, it's just not legal.
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A note about sex offenders and marriage....
This is a quote from the state website: "If either applicant is a lifetime sex or violent offender, unless the individual submits an affidavit stating under the penalties of perjury that the individual has provided written notice of the person's (A) intent to marry, and (B) intended married name; to the local law enforcement authority in the county of conviction and in the person's county of residence."
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You can not be drunk or high.
Because getting married is a legal contract, you need to sober when you go to pick up your marriage license. You can not be under the influence of any drugs or alcohol.
You are issued a license by the state that allows you to marry. The act of how you actually get married is up to you. If you are under the influence at your wedding that's between you and the person performing your wedding.
Personally...One of the first question I ask a couple when planning their formal wedding ceremony is "will you be drunk at your wedding?" I don't care if they say yes, I just very strongly suggest choosing a wedding ceremony that matches the mood.
You are issued a license by the state that allows you to marry. The act of how you actually get married is up to you. If you are under the influence at your wedding that's between you and the person performing your wedding.
Personally...One of the first question I ask a couple when planning their formal wedding ceremony is "will you be drunk at your wedding?" I don't care if they say yes, I just very strongly suggest choosing a wedding ceremony that matches the mood.
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Bring ID
You need to prove who you are in order to be issued a marriage license. This is usually a really easy process. If you have a valid drivers license or state issued ID, that's all you need. Valid - means it's not expired.
Your ID doesn't have to have your current address on it. You will need to prove your address and your driver's license is one way of doing that but not the only way.
Approved forms of ID
A Drivers License or State Issued ID
or
Passport
or
Birth Certificate
All forms of ID need to be in English. So, if you don't have a drivers license or passport your birth certificate must be in English or a notarized translation of the original document.
Please note - ONE of these ID's is enough in Marion and Hamilton Counties. If you are obtaining your marriage license in a different county please contact your clerk to make sure you have proper ID. Some counties require 2 forms of ID.
If you may be wondering...I once had a groom that only had a Guatemalan State ID. The clerk accepted a legally translated copy and issued him a marriage license. The do not check your residency or visa status when issuing a marriage license. They just charge you more if both of you aren't Indiana residents.
Your ID doesn't have to have your current address on it. You will need to prove your address and your driver's license is one way of doing that but not the only way.
Approved forms of ID
A Drivers License or State Issued ID
or
Passport
or
Birth Certificate
All forms of ID need to be in English. So, if you don't have a drivers license or passport your birth certificate must be in English or a notarized translation of the original document.
Please note - ONE of these ID's is enough in Marion and Hamilton Counties. If you are obtaining your marriage license in a different county please contact your clerk to make sure you have proper ID. Some counties require 2 forms of ID.
If you may be wondering...I once had a groom that only had a Guatemalan State ID. The clerk accepted a legally translated copy and issued him a marriage license. The do not check your residency or visa status when issuing a marriage license. They just charge you more if both of you aren't Indiana residents.
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Proof of address
You only have to prove your address is you live in Indiana. You are proving you actually live in the county in which you are applying for your marriage license. You are proving the address you are providing on your application. You may each have a different address when applying for your marriage license. Only one of you needs to prove your Indiana address.
How to prove your address.
You can bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage or bank statement. You can usually bring up an online statement on your phone.
Proof of address is the most common issue when applying for a marriage license.
How to prove your address.
You can bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage or bank statement. You can usually bring up an online statement on your phone.
Proof of address is the most common issue when applying for a marriage license.
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You will need your social security number.
You don't need the actual social security card. You will need to provide the last 4 digits of your social security number when the clerk brings up your application on the computer. If you don't want to say the numbers out loud, you can write them down.
If you don't have a social securty number, no worries!
If you don't have a social securty number, no worries!
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Other stuff to consider...
You need family information. If you don't have the information it's OK. It's mainly for genealogical research. Stuff like, the name of your parents and their last known address and where they were born.
They also ask for the name of your children. I've learned that naming your children is especially important if you are foreign born and will be applying to bring your family members to the US.
They also ask for the name of your children. I've learned that naming your children is especially important if you are foreign born and will be applying to bring your family members to the US.
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Check your information!
The clerk will bring up your application and have you look at it on the computer screen to make sure all of the information is correct. Be sure to check the spelling of your name and all of the other information! There is a process you will need to go through once the license is issued to change any of the information. That process varies by county and may require an additional fee or paperwork. This is a legal document - red tape, paperwork, bureaucracy....
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Show me the money!
There is a fee for a marriage license. It's a fee per license, not a fee per person. If you live in Indiana, the fee for an Indiana marriage license is $18. If you do not live in Indiana, the fee for an Indiana marriage license is $60.
Bring cash. Some counties to accept cards but there is a transaction fee to pay with a credit or debit card.
Certified copies of your marriage license are extra. It's generally $2 per copy. Some counties charge $1 per copy. Other counties charge $1 per copy and $1 per official stamp to certify the copy. Make sure you bring this extra money with you. You cannot prove your are legally married without the actual certified copy of or official marriage license.
Bring cash. Some counties to accept cards but there is a transaction fee to pay with a credit or debit card.
Certified copies of your marriage license are extra. It's generally $2 per copy. Some counties charge $1 per copy. Other counties charge $1 per copy and $1 per official stamp to certify the copy. Make sure you bring this extra money with you. You cannot prove your are legally married without the actual certified copy of or official marriage license.
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The Paperwork the Clerk will give you.
When you leave the clerks office you will have have a stack of papers. The MOST IMPORTANT paper the give you in the actual marriage license. The marriage license has the Official Seal of the State of Indiana on it It has a number, application date and expiration date. It has the clerk's signature and the clerk's official seal. Legally this is the only piece of paper they give you that matters. It's the license that needs to be completed and filed with the clerk. (See the picture below.)
If you look at the pictures below, you will see there is no place for witnesses. Witnesses are not required to get married in Indiana. There is no place for them to sign on the license to marry and no place for their names to appear on the certified marriage license. (This is my way of proving it to people who don't believe me.)
Almost every clerk will also issue you a decorative marriage license. Many of these don't have a place for the married couple to sign, just a place for the witnesses to sign. This does not mean you need witnesses to get married. It's just a decorative tradition. Some copies have a place for the couple and witnesses to sign. Still, they are not legal copies. It's just a memory of your wedding day.
If you look at the pictures below, you will see there is no place for witnesses. Witnesses are not required to get married in Indiana. There is no place for them to sign on the license to marry and no place for their names to appear on the certified marriage license. (This is my way of proving it to people who don't believe me.)
Almost every clerk will also issue you a decorative marriage license. Many of these don't have a place for the married couple to sign, just a place for the witnesses to sign. This does not mean you need witnesses to get married. It's just a decorative tradition. Some copies have a place for the couple and witnesses to sign. Still, they are not legal copies. It's just a memory of your wedding day.
Certified Marriage License Issued BEFORE your are married.
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Certified Marriage License Issued AFTER you are married.
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Let me explain certified copies..
When you apply for a marriage license they will issue you a license to marry.
The marriage license will have an official seal on it.
You take that license to marry to a wedding officiant (someone legally qualified to marry you in Indiana) and they will sign it with you and marry you.
AFTER you have the marriage license signed you need to return the license to the same clerk that issued the license within 30 days.
If you don't return the license you are technically not married.
Just because you received a license to marry does not mean you are required to actually get married.
You can change your mind.
If the completed license is never filed with the clerk then you are not technically married in a way where you need to get divorced. You are still technically married, you will just need to complete the paperwork.
Once the completed marriage license is filed with the clerk you will need to get a certified copy of the completed marriage license to prove you are married.
There is a Marriage License and there is a Certified Marriage License.
The marriage license will have an official seal on it.
You take that license to marry to a wedding officiant (someone legally qualified to marry you in Indiana) and they will sign it with you and marry you.
AFTER you have the marriage license signed you need to return the license to the same clerk that issued the license within 30 days.
If you don't return the license you are technically not married.
Just because you received a license to marry does not mean you are required to actually get married.
You can change your mind.
If the completed license is never filed with the clerk then you are not technically married in a way where you need to get divorced. You are still technically married, you will just need to complete the paperwork.
Once the completed marriage license is filed with the clerk you will need to get a certified copy of the completed marriage license to prove you are married.
There is a Marriage License and there is a Certified Marriage License.
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Timing
Once you have your marriage license you have 60 days to get married. Your marriage license needs to be signed on or before the expiration date.
Once the marriage license is signed, you need to return the license to the county clerk that issued it within 30 days.
That's the law.
Marion County interprets that law differently. As long as the license is signed before it expires, the Marion County Clerk will always take the marriage license back.
Other counties will still accept the marriage license back after 30 days but there is additional paperwork and fees that may apply.
Once the marriage license is signed, you need to return the license to the county clerk that issued it within 30 days.
That's the law.
Marion County interprets that law differently. As long as the license is signed before it expires, the Marion County Clerk will always take the marriage license back.
Other counties will still accept the marriage license back after 30 days but there is additional paperwork and fees that may apply.
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Your Marriage License has an expiration date.
Your Indiana marriage license is good for 60 days. If you don't get married within that 60 days you will need to get another one - There is a fee for this.
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I LOST MY MARRIAGE LICENSE!
No worries! The county clerk with print out another copy of your marriage license for free.
If you lose the signed copy of the marriage license you are still married, you just need to have your wedding officiant fill out the paperwork again. They will use the same date you were married. The same goes for if you your license is lost in the mail. You just get another copy and sign it again.
If you lose the signed copy of the marriage license you are still married, you just need to have your wedding officiant fill out the paperwork again. They will use the same date you were married. The same goes for if you your license is lost in the mail. You just get another copy and sign it again.
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How about common law marriage?
There is no common law marriage in Indiana. You have to be legally married with a filed marriage license to be recognized as married.
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Why can't we get married at the courthouse?
I do not know. Most likely so the judges can spend their time trying cases.
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Who can marry us?
Does it have to be a minister since a judge won't marry us?
Does it have to be a minister since a judge won't marry us?
In Indiana a minister - even an online ordained minister can marry you. That doesn't mean you have to have a religious ceremony. I'm an online ordained minister that performs any type of wedding ceremony. Most of the ceremonies I perform are non-religious.
Call me! (317)403-7379 You can text too. I'm happy to marry you! My simple civil ceremony starts at just $50.!
Here is a list of people who can legally perform marriages in Indiana
A member of the clergy of a religious organization (even if the cleric does not perform religious functions for an individual congregation), such as a minister of the gospel, a priest, a bishop, an archbishop, or a rabbi. - This means: You can get ordained online and qualify to perform marriages in Indiana.
A Judge.
A Mayor, within the mayor’s county.
A clerk or a clerk-treasurer of a city or town, within a county in which the city or town is located.
A clerk of the circuit court.
The Friends Church, in accordance with the rules of the Friends Church.
The German Baptists, in accordance with the rules of their society.
The Baha'i faith, in accordance with the rules of the Baha'i faith.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in accordance with the rules of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
An imam of a masjid (mosque), in accordance with the rules of the religion of Islam.
Call me! (317)403-7379 You can text too. I'm happy to marry you! My simple civil ceremony starts at just $50.!
Here is a list of people who can legally perform marriages in Indiana
A member of the clergy of a religious organization (even if the cleric does not perform religious functions for an individual congregation), such as a minister of the gospel, a priest, a bishop, an archbishop, or a rabbi. - This means: You can get ordained online and qualify to perform marriages in Indiana.
A Judge.
A Mayor, within the mayor’s county.
A clerk or a clerk-treasurer of a city or town, within a county in which the city or town is located.
A clerk of the circuit court.
The Friends Church, in accordance with the rules of the Friends Church.
The German Baptists, in accordance with the rules of their society.
The Baha'i faith, in accordance with the rules of the Baha'i faith.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in accordance with the rules of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
An imam of a masjid (mosque), in accordance with the rules of the religion of Islam.
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How do I change my name?
You do not change your name on your marriage license. You sign the marriage license exactly as you signed it when you picked it up from the clerk. The clerk did not tell you to sign it with your married name - you misunderstood them.
Who you are is directly related to your social security number. What every name your social security number says is your legal name.
AFTER you are married you:
File your completed marriage license with the clerk that issued it.
The clerk with issue you a CERTIFIED COPY OF YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE
Then, you go to the Social Security office with the certified copy of your marriage license and change your name. You can also do this may mail.
Click This Link for locations of Social Security offices.
Click This Link for information as to how to change your name. This is the Social Security Website.
If you walk into the social security office with the certified copy of your marriage license they will issue you a new social security card right away. They do not change the number - just the name.
Please contact your local Social Security Office for their current COVID-19 procedures. At this time, you can only change your name through the mail.
AFTER you have change your name with social security, wait 24 hours. Then, you can go to the BMV and change your name there. You need the new social security cared and updated drivers license to change your name everywhere else.
Who you are is directly related to your social security number. What every name your social security number says is your legal name.
AFTER you are married you:
File your completed marriage license with the clerk that issued it.
The clerk with issue you a CERTIFIED COPY OF YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE
Then, you go to the Social Security office with the certified copy of your marriage license and change your name. You can also do this may mail.
Click This Link for locations of Social Security offices.
Click This Link for information as to how to change your name. This is the Social Security Website.
If you walk into the social security office with the certified copy of your marriage license they will issue you a new social security card right away. They do not change the number - just the name.
Please contact your local Social Security Office for their current COVID-19 procedures. At this time, you can only change your name through the mail.
AFTER you have change your name with social security, wait 24 hours. Then, you can go to the BMV and change your name there. You need the new social security cared and updated drivers license to change your name everywhere else.
