How Do I Get a Duplicate Marriage License?
- 1). Get the contact information for the clerk of the local government office where the original marriage license was obtained. This is usually the town clerk, city clerk or county clerk.
- 2). Contact the clerk to explain that the marriage license was lost or damaged, and you need a duplicate. Make sure you ask for a duplicate marriage license and not a copy of a marriage certificate, as these are two different legal documents.
- 3). Ask the clerk if the duplicate can be obtained immediately or how long the waiting period may be, if that is the case. Most clerks' offices will issue an immediate duplicate marriage license since original paperwork remains in that office until the official ceremony takes place.
- 4). Ask the clerk if the duplicate can be picked up in person or mailed. If in person, is it limited to the bride and/or groom that have to bring ID; or can a friend or family member complete the task? If a duplicate wedding license affidavit is required, it will need to be completed in person by one or both intended spouses.
- 5). Ask the clerk if there is a fee and what type of payment they accept. Not all clerks' offices handle cash, so be prepared. The duplicate marriage license is usually less expensive than the first.
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