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Michigan marriage license -how to

7/12/2022

 
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How to apply for a marriage license in the state of Michigan 

Did you know if you want to be legally married you must first apply for and obtain a marriage license from your local county clerk's office? I know! So many couples don't even realize that step one of getting married is apply for your marriage license. Let's dive into how to apply for a marriage license in the state of Michigan. 

First you will want to apply at the county clerk's office of the county you reside in. If you live in two different counties than you choose which county office to apply at, it does not matter. 
  • If you live out of state and are getting married in Michigan you will utilize the county clerk's office for the county you are holding your wedding in. 

Each county clerk office has different application processes for marriage license, but most of them go something like this...
  • Complete the marriage application online 
  • Make an appointment to go into the clerk's office to pick up your marriage license

Items you may need to bring with you to get that marriage license: The following is required of both parties:
  •  Valid driver's license or state ID showing current address.
  •  Birth certificate or valid passport.  If passport is used instead of birth certificate, full names of both parents and the state or country where they were born must be provided at time of application. - some counties require the birth certificate. 
  •  Social Security numbers of both parties pursuant to MCL 551.102.

Remember your marriage license is only valid for 30 days as of the date of issuance, yes, it does expire! 

Also, now that you have that marriage license in hand you'll need an Officiant to sign the marriage license as well as two witnesses over 18 years old. 

Request your certified copy of your marriage license

1/24/2021

 
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Don't forget that after you get married you must request your certified/legal copy of your marriage license, it does not come to you automatically! 

Blog PostHow to Get a Certified Copy of Your Marriage License in MichiganOnce you're married, having a certified copy of your marriage license is crucial for various legal and personal reasons. Whether you need it for name changes, insurance purposes, or just for your records, here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license in the state of Michigan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Certified Copy
Step 1: Identify the County Clerk’s OfficeThe first step in obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license is to identify the County Clerk’s Office where your marriage license was originally filed. In Michigan, marriage licenses are filed in the county where the marriage took place. You can usually find this information on your marriage certificate or by contacting the clerk’s office directly.
  • Tip: Visit the official website of the county where you were married to find the contact details and office hours of the County Clerk’s Office.
Step 2: Prepare Necessary InformationBefore you request a certified copy, gather all the required information and documents. Typically, you will need:
  • Full names of both spouses
  • Date of the marriage
  • Place of the marriage (city and county)
  • Valid identification (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
Some counties might require additional details, so check their specific requirements online.
Step 3: Submit Your RequestYou can request a certified copy of your marriage license in person, by mail, or in some cases, online. Here’s how:
  • In-Person: Visit the County Clerk’s Office and fill out a request form. Make sure to bring your ID and any required fees.
  • By Mail: Download and fill out the request form from the county’s website. Include a copy of your ID, the required fee (usually a check or money order), and a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return.
  • Online: Some counties offer online services where you can submit your request and pay fees electronically. Check the county’s website for availability.
Step 4: Pay the FeesThere is a fee associated with obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license. This fee varies by county but is generally around $10-$20 for the first copy, with additional copies costing slightly less. Payment methods typically include cash, check, money order, or credit card, depending on how you submit your request.
Step 5: Receive Your Certified CopyOnce your request and payment are processed, you will receive your certified copy. The processing time can vary:
  • In-Person: You may receive it the same day.
  • By Mail: Expect to wait a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the mail service and processing speed.
  • Online: Online requests may be processed faster, but it still depends on the county’s system.
Additional Tips and Considerations
  • Double-Check Information: Ensure all names and dates are correct on your application to avoid delays.
  • Expedited Services: Some counties offer expedited services for an additional fee if you need the certified copy urgently.
  • Keep Copies Safe: Store your certified copies in a secure place, such as a safe or a locked drawer, to prevent loss or damage.
ConclusionObtaining a certified copy of your marriage license in Michigan is a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Keep your certified copy safe and accessible, as it is an important document for various legal and personal matters. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact your County Clerk’s Office for more information.

Did you know...marriage license filing

1/4/2021

 
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How to Apply for Your Marriage License in Michigan: A Guide by Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I DoGetting ready to tie the knot in Michigan? One of the first steps to making your union official is applying for a marriage license. Here, Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do, a seasoned wedding officiant, provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Why a Marriage License is EssentialA marriage license is a legal document issued by the county that authorizes you and your partner to get married. Without it, your marriage won’t be recognized legally. Here’s how to apply for your marriage license in Michigan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Marriage License in Michigan
Step 1: Determine Your EligibilityBefore you apply, ensure that you meet Michigan’s marriage license requirements:
  • Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If you’re 16 or 17, you’ll need parental consent.
  • Identification: Both parties must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
  • Residency: At least one applicant must be a resident of Michigan. If neither party is a resident, you must apply in the county where the marriage will take place.
Step 2: Gather Necessary DocumentsPrepare the following documents to streamline your application process:
  • Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
  • Birth certificates (optional but helpful for confirming details)
  • Social Security numbers (required for both parties)
Step 3: Visit the County Clerk’s OfficeYou’ll need to apply for your marriage license at the County Clerk’s Office. Here’s how:
  • Find Your County Clerk’s Office: Locate the office in the county where you or your partner reside, or where the marriage will occur if neither of you is a Michigan resident.
  • Visit Together: Both parties must appear in person to apply.
  • Complete the Application: Fill out the marriage license application form provided by the Clerk’s Office.
Step 4: Pay the Application FeeThere is a fee for applying for a marriage license in Michigan. The cost varies by county but generally ranges from $20 to $50. Payment methods may include cash, check, or credit card, depending on the county.
Step 5: Wait for the Processing PeriodOnce you’ve submitted your application and paid the fee, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before the license is issued. Some counties offer a waiver for this waiting period for an additional fee if you need the license sooner.
Step 6: Pick Up Your Marriage LicenseAfter the waiting period, return to the County Clerk’s Office to pick up your marriage license. Make sure to check the office hours and any additional requirements for collection.
Step 7: Use the License Within 33 DaysYour marriage license is valid for 33 days from the date of issuance. Ensure your wedding ceremony occurs within this period. After the ceremony, your officiant (such as Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do) will sign the license, and it must be returned to the Clerk’s Office for official recording.
Why Choose Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I DoChoosing the right officiant is crucial to making your wedding day special. Here’s why Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do is the perfect choice for your ceremony:
  • Personalized Ceremonies: Nichole works closely with couples to create a ceremony that reflects their unique love story.
  • Experienced and Professional: With years of experience, Nichole ensures a seamless and heartfelt ceremony.
  • Warm and Friendly: Known for her approachable and warm demeanor, Nichole makes every couple feel comfortable and cherished.




For more information about Nichole Bertucci and A Simple I Do, visit A Simple I Do.
ConclusionApplying for a marriage license in Michigan is a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Remember, having a knowledgeable and compassionate officiant like Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do can make all the difference in your wedding ceremony. If you’re planning your wedding, don’t hesitate to reach out for expert guidance and a beautifully personalized ceremony.
For more details and to start planning your wedding, contact Nichole Bertucci at A Simple I Do.

Mail delay and your marriage license

8/7/2020

 

The county clerk can't find my marriage license! 

You've gotten married and now you need to get the legal copy of your marriage license, seems easy enough, but with today's mail delays it's causing a bit of a headache. 

I've heard from the local county clerk's office that they used to receive marriage license's back in about 2 weeks but now it can be double - 4 weeks! 

What's to do? wait it out, sadly there is not much we can do with Covid, we are only allowed to mail things in, some counties are setting in person appointments, however it is my legal responsibility to return your marriage license and the county clerk's office asks that I simply mail them in. 

So, I will be advising couples going forward to wait at least 3 weeks maybe 4 before they can bet their legal copy of the marriage license. 

I will also be offering to send your license back priority mail so you can have a tracking number. The addition fee is $10 to do this. 

Rest assured, you are married and it's just taking a bit longer to get that legal copy of your marriage license. 

Covid update 4.13.2020 can i get a marriage license?

4/13/2020

 

I have had many couples contact me to inquire if I am able to perform a marriage ceremony for them this month (April). Here's the thing, according to the Governor's order, I am not. And I have made the personal choice not to perform any wedding's so that I can do my best to secure the health of my family, myself and those I come in contact with. That being said, here is the information I was able to gather this morning.

Keep in mind, you must apply for your marriage license in the county in which you reside. If your county clerk's office is issuing marriage license's you must first find an Officiant who is working and able to schedule a ceremony for you before obtaining the license (in most instances) as the license has an expiration date and Clerk's offices are not issuing refunds if you can not use the license. 

It is a difficult time for everyone involved. Each couple who desperately would like to get married...trust me I want to be there with you and for you. I want nothing more than to stand with you and share your joy and love. But I also want everyone to be safe and healthy and that will always remain my first priority. 

I spent this morning calling the county clerks offices to get accurate information from each of them regarding if they are issuing marriage licenses, please see below. This information is as of 4.13.2020 10:00 am. In today's ever changing climate this information may change any minute.  


Oakland County Clerk - the office is currently closed. You may complete the marriage license online but you may not pick up the license until the county office opens back up and that date is not determined yet. 

Macomb County Clerk - you can print the application and requirements from their website and mail in your marriage application. They will issue you a marriage license 2 weeks after receipt of application, however, you must have a marriage ceremony date lined up as they will not refund money if you can not find someone to perform your marriage ceremony. They encourage you to wait until the Governor's order has been lifted. 

Genesee County Clerk - you can apply for and obtain a marriage license, some restrictions apply and some some special requirements apply. Again, you would need to find someone to perform the marriage ceremony for you. 

Livingston County Clerk- i​t appears you may be able to get a marriage license but you have to call the office first. As of the posting of this blog entry I was unable to connect with anyone on the phone. 

Wayne County Clerk - the clerk's website states they are closed and I am not able to get anyone on the phone, so I am uncertain if you will be able to get a marriage license. 

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Nichole Bertucci, Wedding Officiant in Michigan providing Justice of the Peace weddings in southeast Michigan. 
​Oakland County; Auburn Hills, Berkley, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, Clawson, Commerce Township, Davisburg, Farmington, Ferndale, Franklin, Highland, Holly, Keego Harbor, Lake Orion, Leonard, Milford, Oakland, Ortonville, Oxford, Pontiac, Rochester, Royal Oak, Troy, Union Lake, Walled Lake, Waterford, West Bloomfield, White Lake AND Genesee County; Atlas, Burton, Davison, Fenton, Flint, Flushing, Gaines, Genesee, Goodrich, Grand Blanc, Linden - and more!

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