Top 4 Things to Know When Getting your Arizona Marriage License

StepOn Me Photography

StepOn Me Photography

Let’s start from the beginning, you fall in love, you say yes to the proposal, and start to plan the wedding. A month prior to the wedding, you realize you need to get your marriage license.  It may seem like a simple piece of paperwork, but a marriage license is the single document that legally marks you as married.

Obtaining Your Arizona Marriage License

Getting a marriage license in Arizona is fairly easy compared with other states. There is no waiting period and blood tests aren't required. You can get married the same day that you apply for your marriage license as long as you provide all of the appropriate documentation.

  1. WHERE DO I GET MY MARRIAGE LICENSE?

    Marriage license offices are held in different courts around Arizona. All location hours are from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm (excluding holidays)

    LOCATIONS:

    Phoenix Downtown Clerk of the Court: 601 W.  Jackson, Phoenix, AZ  85003

    Northeast Phoenix Regional Court Center: 18380 N. 40th St. Phoenix, AZ 85032

    Northwest Phoenix Regional court Center: 14264 W. Tierra Buena Lane, Surprise, AZ 85326

    Chandler San Tan Justice Court: 201 E. Chicago St. Suite 102. Chandler, AZ 85225

    Gila Bend- Ironwood Justice Court: 209 E. Prima Gila Bend, AZ 85337

    Gilbert Highland Justice Court:  55 E. Civic Center Dr. Ste 55 Gilbert AZ 85296

    Mesa Southwest Court Complex: 222 E. Javelina, Mesa AZ 85210

    To see the full list of courts in other Arizona cities please visit: www.arizonabridalsource.com/wedding-tips.php


  2. HOW MUCH DOES MY MARRIAGE LICENSE COST?

    In Arizona – the fee is $76.00 (subject to change) and if you want certified copies of a marriage license they are $34.50 (subject to change)

    Payable in cash or by money order, bank guarantee card or credit card

  3. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY FOR A LICENSE?

    • Both parties must be present to apply and obtain the license

    • No Physical examination or blood test is required 

    • You are required to provide a government issued photo ID such as a driver license or passport to show proof of age and identity

    4.    WHEN WILL I GET MY LICENSE?

    There is no waiting period, you will receive your marriage license and may be married on the same day you apply for it.  Note: Marriage license expires one year from the date purchased

Stepon Me Photography

Stepon Me Photography

FYI: The license must be returned within 30 days of the ceremony in order for it to remain valid. The ceremony must take place within a year of the license issue date. If you would like a certified copy of the marriage certificate, which is required for changing your name(s), you'll need to submit an additional $34.50 at the time of application

.Check out the Court house website here: https://www.azcourthelp.org/topics/marriage?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIu9z99rjf6gIVZxitBh1n3g2uEAAYASAAEgIlhPD_BwE

Stepon Me Photography

Stepon Me Photography

PRO Tip:  When or where should you sign the license? And who signs the license?            

Most brides and groom like to sign the license after the ceremony in private with close family and bridal party. However, you can sign during the ceremony, there are no rules or traditions against either way. One thing you will want to make sure no matter where you sign is deciding your witness before! Yes, Can I get a witness? You'll need two witnesses - typically one chosen from each bride and groom. Traditionally, it has been the Maid of Honor and Best Man but truly it can be anyone whom you trust or has the best signature. In the end you want to make sure you've chosen your witnesses before it comes time to sign. 

You’ve worked so hard to get to the moment and you finally sign your license, its official!! Make sure that your photographer snaps a few photos of the special moment.

Enjoy,

XOXO

Stepon Me Photography

Stepon Me Photography