Introduction
The marriage certificate in Ohio is a vital document that couples need to obtain after tying the knot. It serves as proof of the legal union between two individuals and is necessary to change a person’s surname, apply for visas, and access various legal rights. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Ohio, the legal requirements for getting married in the state, and important updates regarding marriage certificate application due to COVID-19.
The Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Ohio
In Ohio, there are certain legal requirements that individuals must meet before they can get married. These include:
1. Age requirement
The legal age for marriage in Ohio is 18 years old. However, individuals who are 16 or 17 years old may still get married with parental consent. A court order is necessary for individuals younger than 16 years old to get married, and in such cases, they can only get married to someone who is not more than four years older than them.
2. Identification
Couples must provide identification documents, such as a valid driver’s license, passport, or state ID, when they apply for a marriage license.
3. Waiting period
Ohio law requires a waiting period of three days before the issuance of a marriage license. However, this waiting period can be waived if the couple completes a premarital counseling program. In addition, the license is valid for 60 days from the day it was issued, and couples must get married within this period.
4. Blood test
Ohio no longer requires a blood test as part of the marriage license application process.
How to Obtain a Marriage Certificate in Ohio
To obtain a marriage certificate in Ohio, the following steps must be taken:
1. Apply for a marriage license
The first step in obtaining a marriage certificate in Ohio is to apply for a marriage license. This can be done at the county probate court in the county where either of the applicants resides. Both applicants must be present when applying for the license and must provide identification documents.
2. Pay the marriage license fee
The fee for a marriage license in Ohio varies from county to county but ranges between $45 to $75. Payment is made at the time of application.
3. Wait for the waiting period to elapse
After the application has been approved, couples must wait for the three-day waiting period to elapse before picking up their marriage license. This waiting period can be waived if the couple completes premarital counseling.
4. Get married
Once the waiting period has elapsed, and the couple has their marriage license, they can proceed to get married. The ceremony must be performed within the 60 days that the license is valid.
5. File for a marriage certificate
After the marriage ceremony, the officiant or the couple must file the marriage license with the county probate court. The court will then issue the marriage certificate, which is the legal proof of the marriage.
Important Updates Regarding Marriage License Application Due to COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted various aspects of daily life, including getting married. Ohio has implemented some measures to ensure that couples can still obtain their marriage certificates even in the midst of the pandemic. Here are some updates regarding the application process:
1. Appointment only
Due to the pandemic, some county probate courts are operating on an appointment-only system when applying for a marriage license. Couples are advised to check with the specific county where they intend to apply for their license to determine if an appointment is necessary.
2. Use of remote technology
Some courts now allow couples to apply for their marriage license remotely, through video conferencing or other remote technologies. Again, couples are encouraged to check with their county to see if this option is available.
3. Social distancing measures
In-person appointments and visits to the court require the observance of social distancing protocols, including wearing face masks, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and the use of hand sanitizer.
Conclusion
A marriage certificate in Ohio is a vital document that legally proves the union between two individuals. The legal requirements for getting married in Ohio include providing identification, meeting the age requirement, going through premarital counseling or waiting for three days, and having the marriage ceremony performed within the validity period of the license. Ohio has implemented some measures to ensure that couples can still obtain their marriage certificates amidst the pandemic, including the use of remote technology, appointments only, and social distancing measures. By following the legal requirements and taking note of updates regarding the application process, couples can obtain their marriage certificate without any hassle.
How to Obtain Marriage Certificate in Ohio
Marriage Certificates: Ohio
In order to receive a marriage certificate in Ohio, two people will have to meet a variety of qualifications, go through a number of steps, and make sure a marriage is solemnized in a certain amount of time. You’ll find complete information on obtaining a marriage certificate (Ohio) in this article.
Qualifying Factors for Marriage Certificates in Ohio
In order for a marriage to hold validity under Code 3101 of the Ohio Revised Statutes, the marriage must have been entered into between a female that was at least 16 years old and a male that was at least 18 years old. They may not relate to each other nearer than second cousins, and a legal marriage may only be entered into by one man and woman who are in no other marriage.
If a minor wants to obtain marriage certificate in Ohio, they should first obtain consent from their parents, a surviving parent, a parent who represents a residential parent or legal custodian, a guardian, or any of the following entities in certain cases:
• an adult person
• the department of job and family services or a child welfare organization
• a public children services agency
There are a number of steps you’ll have to take after you meet qualifying factors. These steps are listed below:
Step 1: Contact the County Probate Clerk
In order to receive marriage certificates in Ohio, couples must contact the county clerk and travel to the office with a valid government form of identification and the correct amount of funds for associated fees. Fees will range from county to county in Ohio.
Step 2: Obtain Divorce Records if Necessary
If you have been divorced or widowed in the state of Ohio, you will need to submit a divorce decree to the county probate court that indicates the divorce is official. You’ll want to plan to receive the divorce forms as soon as possible so there is no chance the marriage certificate in Ohio will expire.
Step 3: Make sure the marriage certificates in Ohio do not expire
The marriage certificate in Ohio will only be valid for 60 days. If the marriage ceremony has not occurred 60 days after the form was issued, you will have to apply for another marriage certificate in Ohio.
Step 4: Make sure the marriage is solemnized by a certified individual
Marriage certificates in Ohio are only valid if witnessed by a legal authority under the Ohio Revised Code. For information on who many solemnize marriages in Ohio, visit the following link for Code 3101.08 Who may solemnize marriages:
Step 5: Return the Authorized Marriage Certificate in Ohio to your County Probate Court
The person who solemnized the marriage will record their name on marriage certificates in Ohio, and the secretary of state will make sure the person is legally qualified. After the marriage certificate is signed you will have to return the form to your local probate court.
