The License

How much with the Marriage License cost?

One question every engaged couple has is: how much will my marriage license cost? In the United States, marriage license cost varies by state and county, and the procedure may be different as well, depending on where you live. It's important to make sure that you research your local marriage license cost and procedures so that you know what you might need to pay, and what you're getting into.

For example, if you're getting married in New York City, you can go to the Marriage Bureau at the City Clerk's office, or start your application online on the Marriage Bureau Web site. The marriage license duration is 60 days from the date of issue -- so you can't get one more than two months in advance -- and the marriage license cost is $35; you can pay with a credit card or a money order made out to the City Clerk. Both partners will have to show up in person, however, to complete the application process, to check out the license itself for mistakes, and to obtain the paper itself. There's a 24-hour waiting period between the time your license is issued and when you can marry.

Using the example above, int he United States the best place to start is always with your local clerks office. Give them a call to determine hours of operation, who you will need to talk to and what you'll need to bring with you to make the process move forward smoothly. After all. this is your wedding and you want to take care of these things early on so there are no last minute surprises.