Are wedding bells ringing in your future? Congratulations! Before you walk down the aisle, there's an important legal step to take: obtaining a marriage license. If you're planning to tie the knot in Davidson County, Tennessee, you're in the right place. Let's walk through the process step by step.
1. Know the Requirements: Before applying for a marriage license in Davidson County, make sure you meet the following requirements:
Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
If either party is under 18, they must have a court order and written consent from their parent or legal guardian.
Both parties must appear in person to apply.
You don't have to be a resident of Tennessee to marry in Davidson County, but the license is valid statewide.
2. Gather Necessary Documents: When you're ready to apply for your marriage license, be sure to bring the following documents with you:
Valid photo identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID.
Social Security numbers for both parties (you don't need to bring your cards, just the numbers).
If applicable, divorce decrees or death certificates from previous marriages.
3. Visit the County Clerk's Office: Head to the Davidson County Clerk's office to apply for your marriage license. The address is:
Davidson County Clerk 700 2nd Avenue South, Suite 101 Nashville, TN 37210
The office is typically open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's a good idea to check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on hours and any closures.
4. Complete the Application: Once you arrive at the Clerk's office, you'll need to fill out a marriage license application. The application will ask for basic information such as your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and your parents' full names, including mothers' maiden names.
5. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for obtaining a marriage license in Davidson County, which varies depending on whether you complete a premarital preparation course. As of April 4th, 2024, the fee is $101.50 if you complete the course or $98.50 if you choose not to.
6. Receive Your License: After you've submitted your application and paid the fee, the clerk will issue you a marriage license. The license is typically issued immediately, and there is no waiting period before you can use it to get married.
7. Get Married: Once you have your marriage license in hand, you're ready to tie the knot! Keep in mind that the license is only valid for 30 days from the date of issue, so be sure to plan your ceremony accordingly.
8. After the Wedding: After the ceremony, your officiant will sign the marriage license, along with at least two witnesses. Once it's signed, the officiant is responsible for returning the license to the Davidson County Clerk's office for recording. Once recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.
And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to obtaining a marriage license in Davidson County, TN. Now that you know the process, you can focus on planning the wedding of your dreams. Congratulations again, and best wishes for a lifetime of love and happiness!
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