Learn How to Apply for and Obtain a Legal Washington Marriage License

Are you planning to get married in the State of Washington? If so, you'll need to know a few things before you head to that wedding ceremony.

Did you know that to become legally married here you need a marriage license, and that to obtain your Washington marriage license you need to apply about a month before the wedding date? There are many other Washington marriage laws that need to be adhered to, and thus it is essential that you know them all.

How to Apply for Your Marriage License in Washington: What Documents Will You Need to Provide?

Do keep in mind that you must send your application about a month before the wedding day. In your eagerness do not send it too early, as the license may expire.

When you are applying, you need to provide your birth certificate that proves your age. This is necessary in some counties when you are under 30 years of age. If you are quite young – less than 18 years of age in this case, then this birth certificate also has to be certified. You will also have to furnish your tax documents as well.

In the state of Washington, you can get married if you are 18 or even 17 years of age. If this is your case, you will need to be accompanied by a parent or a legal custodian who will provide the consent before the license can be issued.

Those who are less than 17 years of age can also get married in Washington, but the superior court judge of the county needs to waive the age requirement. A written permission from the family court in addition to the birth certificate and driver’s license is needed. Emancipated minors need to provide court emancipation papers to allow the minor to get married.

Application Regulations for Your Washington Marriage License:

•    The ID that is needed to apply for a marriage license in the state is a valid driver’s license, valid passport and a birth certificate that is certified.
•    If you have been married before, then you must know that the divorce must be final and filed before you can place an application for the marriage license. However, you don't need to furnish any documents attesting to this fact.
•    It is not necessary that you be a resident of Washington to apply for the license.
•    There is a 3-day waiting period in the state.
•    Unlike some other states, in Washington there is no need for any blood tests.
•    Do remember that when you are submitting an application, both the groom and the bride must be present.
•    The fee that you'll have to pay is approximately $52. It tends to differ a bit from one county to another.
•    You can pay the fee only by cash.
•    Proxy marriages are not allowed in the state.
•    A marriage license in Washington is valid for 60 days and it can be used only within the boundaries of the state.
•    A wedding in Washington can be performed by a licensed or ordained priest or minister of any religious body or church located in the state. The person conducting the marriage must send the signed marriage licensee to the County Auditor within 30 days of the marriage.