How to Apply for a Marriage License in Massachusetts

If you're planning to get married in Massachusetts, you will need to apply for a marriage license. Here are the steps to apply for a marriage license in Massachusetts:

1. Make sure you and your partner meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Massachusetts. If you're under 18, you'll need to get parental consent and a court order.

2. Gather the necessary documents. You'll need to bring a government-issued ID (such as a driver's license or passport) to prove your age and identity. If you've been married before, you'll also need to provide a copy of your divorce decree or death certificate of your former spouse.

3. Visit the City Clerk's office in the city or town where you plan to get married. You'll need to apply for a marriage license in person. You can find a list of City Clerk's offices on the Massachusetts Secretary of State website.

4. Fill out the marriage license application. You and your partner will need to provide basic information such as your names, addresses, and social security numbers. You'll also need to indicate your intended date and location of marriage.

5. Pay the marriage license fee. The fee varies by city or town, but it typically ranges from $35 to $50. You can pay with cash, check, or credit card.

6. Wait for the marriage license to be issued. In Massachusetts, there is a three-day waiting period between the time you apply for the marriage license and when it is issued. This waiting period can be waived in certain circumstances, such as if one of you is a member of the armed forces and is about to be deployed.

7. Pick up your marriage license. Once the waiting period is over, you can go back to the City Clerk's office and pick up your marriage license. The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.

Congratulations, you're now ready to get married in Massachusetts!