Navigating Dauphin County Marriage Licensing: A Step-by-Step Guide.

The Bridal Tip

Getting married is an exciting milestone in life, and one of the first steps towards marital bliss is obtaining a marriage license. In Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, the process of obtaining a marriage license is straightforward, but it’s important to be aware of the necessary requirements and procedures. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to obtain a marriage license in Dauphin County.

1. Eligibility:
Before applying for a marriage license in Dauphin County, both parties must meet certain eligibility criteria. Both individuals must be at least 18 years old, or 16 years old with parental consent. Additionally, neither party can be currently married or closely related by blood. It’s essential to ensure that you meet these eligibility requirements before proceeding with the application.

2. Application Process:
To apply for a marriage license in Dauphin County, you have two options: online or in person. The online application process provides convenience and saves time. Simply visit the Dauphin County Register of Wills website and click on the “Marriage License” tab. Follow the prompts to complete the required information, upload necessary documents, and schedule a video conference appointment. Once the application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email.

Alternatively, you can visit the Dauphin County Register of Wills office in person to complete the application. They are located at 101 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101. The office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and required documents during your visit.

3. Required Documents:
When applying for a marriage license in Dauphin County, you must provide certain documents to verify your identity and eligibility. Each individual must present a valid photo identification (ID), such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, you will need to provide documentation of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, Social Security printout, pay stubs, W-2 forms, or income tax returns. It’s important to gather these documents beforehand to ensure a smooth application process.

4. Waiting Period:
Pennsylvania law requires a three-day waiting period between the application date and when the marriage license can be issued. For example, if you apply on Monday, your license will be ready on Thursday. If you apply on Tuesday, your license will be ready on Friday. Keep this waiting period in mind when planning your wedding date.

5. License Fee:
There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in Dauphin County. The current fee is $60, payable by cash or credit card. It’s important to bring the exact amount as the office may not be able to provide change.

6. License Validity:
Once issued, a marriage license in Dauphin County is valid for 60 days. It’s essential to plan your wedding within this timeframe to ensure the license remains valid. If the license expires before the wedding, you will need to reapply and pay the fee again.

Obtaining a marriage license in Dauphin County is an important step towards your happily ever after. By following the requirements and procedures outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process. Remember to plan ahead, gather the necessary documents, and adhere to the waiting period and validity period of the license. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

How Do I Get A Marriage Certificate In Dauphin County PA?

To obtain a marriage certificate in Dauphin County, PA, you can follow the steps outlined below:

1. Visit the official website of the Dauphin County Register of Wills office.
2. Look for the “Marriage License” section on the website.
3. Once you find the marriage license section, you may have the option to request a copy online. Click on the provided link to proceed.
4. On the online request page, you will likely need to log in as a guest or create an account if required.
5. Accept the online services disclaimer, which is a common step to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions.
6. Next, you will be prompted to search for the marriage record either by name or license number. Enter the required details and click on the “Search Public Record” button.
7. Once you find the correct record, select the option to request a certified copy of the marriage license.
8. Follow the provided prompts and provide any necessary information, such as your contact details and mailing address.
9. Double-check all the information you have entered to ensure accuracy.
10. Proceed to complete the payment process. The cost for a certified copy of a marriage certificate may vary, so be prepared to pay the required fee.
11. After submitting your request and payment, you will receive a confirmation or receipt, either on the website or via email.
12. The processing time for your request may vary, but typically it takes a few business days.
13. Once your request is processed, the certified marriage certificate will be mailed to the address you provided during the request process.
14. Upon receiving the certificate, verify that all the information is correct and matches your expectations.

Please note that the steps mentioned above may vary slightly depending on the specific website or online system used by the Dauphin County Register of Wills office. It is always recommended to visit the official website and follow the instructions provided there for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

dauphin county marriage license

How Do I Get Married At The Dauphin County Courthouse?

To get married at the Dauphin County Courthouse, you will need to follow a few steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do so:

1. E-file a marriage license application: Begin by electronically filing a marriage license application. This can be done on the official website of the Dauphin County Courthouse. Make sure to provide all the necessary information accurately.

2. Upload required documents: Along with the application, you will need to upload certain documents. These may include identification proof, birth certificates, and any previous marriage dissolution documents if applicable. Ensure that you have these documents ready in a digital format before proceeding.

3. Choose a date and time for the video conference: After submitting the application and documents, you will need to schedule a video conference with the courthouse. This is where the marriage ceremony will take place. Select a suitable date and time for the video conference from the available options.

4. Authorize payment of fee: As part of the process, you will be required to pay a fee for the marriage license. This fee can vary, so check the courthouse website or contact them for the exact amount. Make sure to authorize the payment securely through the provided payment methods.

5. Confirmation email: Once you have successfully e-filed the application, uploaded the required documents, scheduled the video conference, and made the payment, a confirmation email will be sent to you. This email will serve as proof that your application has been submitted and that your marriage ceremony is scheduled.

It is important to note that the Dauphin County Courthouse may have specific requirements and procedures for getting married. It is advisable to visit their official website or contact them directly for any additional information or clarification.

In summary, to get married at the Dauphin County Courthouse, you need to e-file a marriage license application, upload required documents, choose a date and time for the video conference, authorize payment of the fee, and wait for the confirmation email.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Marriage License In PA?

In Pennsylvania, there is a three-day waiting period for obtaining a marriage license. This waiting period is required by state law and applies to all applicants. The waiting period begins on the day the applicants apply for the marriage license.

To give you a clearer understanding, let’s break it down:

1. If you apply for a marriage license on Monday:
– The waiting period of three days starts on Monday.
– The license will be issued on Thursday, after the three-day waiting period has ended.

2. If you apply for a marriage license on Tuesday:
– The waiting period of three days starts on Tuesday.
– The license will be issued on Friday, after the three-day waiting period has ended.

It’s important to note that the waiting period is counted in calendar days, meaning weekends and public holidays are also included in the count. Therefore, if there is a public holiday during the three-day waiting period, it will extend the time it takes to receive the marriage license.

To summarize, the time it takes to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania is at least three days, regardless of the day you apply.

What Documents Do You Need For A Marriage License In PA?

To obtain a marriage license in Pennsylvania (PA), you will need to provide certain documents as part of the application process. These documents serve as proof of identification and verification of your Social Security number. Here is a detailed list of the required documentation:

1. Photo Identification (ID): You and your partner must present a valid photo ID issued by the government. Acceptable forms of identification include:
– Driver’s license
– State-issued ID card
– Passport
– Military ID card

2. Social Security Number Documentation: You have two options to verify your Social Security number:
A) Social Security Printouts: Obtain a printout from the Social Security Administration that verifies your SSN.
B) Second ID: If you do not have a social security printout, you can provide a second form of identification from the following list:
– Pay stubs: Recent pay stubs that display your name and Social Security number.
– W-2 forms: Copies of your most recent W-2 forms from your employer.
– Income tax returns: Copies of your federal income tax returns from the previous year.

It’s important to note that all documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies or notarized copies may not be accepted. Additionally, make sure that the documents are up-to-date and have not expired.

By providing the required photo identification and documentation of your Social Security number, you can complete the application process for a marriage license in Pennsylvania.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Dauphin County marriage license is a straightforward process that can be done either online or in person. By utilizing the online services, individuals can easily search for their marriage record, order a certified copy of their license, and complete the necessary application forms. It is important to note that there is a three-day waiting period between the application and issuance of the license, so applicants should plan accordingly. Additionally, all applicants must provide valid photo identification and documentation of their Social Security number or a second form of identification. This can include items such as Social Security printouts, pay stubs, W-2 forms, or income tax returns. By following these steps and providing the required documentation, couples can successfully obtain their Dauphin County marriage license and proceed with their wedding plans.