Getting legally married in New Jersey requires more than just showing up at your venue with rings and vows. The state has specific requirements for marriage licenses, and while the basic rules are consistent statewide, individual counties handle the application process differently. Understanding these requirements and planning accordingly ensures you have all necessary documentation ready well before your wedding day, avoiding last-minute stress or legal complications.
New Jersey’s marriage license process is relatively straightforward compared to some states, but it still involves paperwork, waiting periods, and specific documentation that varies depending on your circumstances. Whether you’re both New Jersey residents, coming from out of state, or have been previously married, knowing what to expect from your specific county’s process helps you complete this essential legal step efficiently.
What Are the Basic Requirements?
Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent in New Jersey. You don’t need to be a New Jersey resident to obtain a marriage license in the state, making it popular for destination weddings. However, you must apply in person at a New Jersey county registrar’s office, both parties must appear together when applying. The marriage license costs vary by county but typically range from $28 to $35.
New Jersey has a 72-hour waiting period between when you receive your marriage license and when you can legally marry. Your marriage license remains valid for six months after issuance. Most couples apply two to three weeks before their ceremony, giving themselves buffer room beyond the 72-hour minimum while ensuring their license remains valid.
What Documents Do You Need?
Government-issued photo identification is required for both parties. Acceptable forms include driver’s licenses, passports, state ID cards, or military IDs. Proof of Social Security numbers is necessary for both applicants through your Social Security card, W-2 form, pay stub, or other official documents displaying your number.
Divorce or death certificates are required if either party was previously married. These documents must be original certified copies or government-issued duplicates—photocopies are not acceptable. If your divorce or spouse’s death occurred in another state or country, you’ll need to obtain proper documentation from that jurisdiction.
How Do County Offices Differ?
Monmouth County, which includes the Millstone Township area where Windows on the Water is located, processes marriage licenses at the County Clerk’s Office in Freehold. They operate during standard business hours on weekdays, and calling ahead to confirm current procedures is wise, especially during peak wedding season.
Middlesex County handles marriage licenses through their County Clerk’s Office in New Brunswick, serving many couples getting married in central New Jersey. Ocean County’s office in Toms River sees high wedding volume during summer months, which can mean longer wait times. Bergen County processes applications in Hackensack and often experiences significant foot traffic due to the area’s high population density.
What Happens During Your Application?
You’ll complete an application form providing information about both parties, including full legal names, dates of birth, places of birth, current addresses, and parents’ names. The form also asks about any previous marriages and how they ended. Both parties will sign the application in the presence of the registrar, who will verify your identification and review your supporting documents. This process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all required documents.
You’ll receive your marriage license immediately upon approval and payment. Keep this document safe, it must be presented to your officiant on your wedding day. The registrar will explain the 72-hour waiting period and the six-month validity window, as well as how your officiant will complete the license after your ceremony.
Who Can Officiate Your Wedding?
New Jersey recognizes various officiants including active or retired judges, current or former mayors of New Jersey municipalities, and ordained clergy members. Your officiant completes and signs your marriage license after your ceremony, along with you, your partner, and two witnesses who must be at least 18 years old.
Your officiant is responsible for returning the completed marriage license to the registrar’s office within five days of your ceremony. Marriage certificates become available after your license is recorded and serve as legal proof of your marriage for name changes and other official purposes.
How Should You Prepare?
Create a checklist of required documents based on your specific situation. Call your county clerk’s office to confirm current procedures, hours, and any appointment requirements. County processes occasionally change, and confirming details prevents wasted trips.
Plan your appointment timing strategically. Mid-week mornings typically see lighter traffic at clerk’s offices than Monday mornings or Friday afternoons. Bring extra documentation when possible, having your birth certificate even if not required, or multiple forms of ID, helps if questions arise.
International couples may need to provide passport identification and possibly visa or immigration documentation. Some counties require translation of foreign documents by certified translators, so contact your county clerk’s office well in advance to understand specific requirements.
Plan Your New Jersey Wedding at Windows on the Water
At Windows on the Water, our experienced team has worked with countless couples through the marriage license process and can provide guidance on timing your application appropriately around your celebration at our Millstone venue. We understand the importance of handling legal requirements properly and work with officiants experienced in New Jersey wedding law who ensure your marriage license is completed correctly and filed promptly after your ceremony. As winners of the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice award and The Knot Best Of Weddings 2018, we’ve supported hundreds of couples through every aspect of their wedding planning.
Our 86-acre waterfront property in Millstone, New Jersey, provides the stunning backdrop for your ceremony once all the paperwork is properly handled. From the moment you begin planning through your legal marriage and your celebration itself, we’re here to support you with experienced guidance and exceptional service. Contact us today to discuss your wedding plans and learn how our team helps couples navigate both the practical legal requirements and create the magical celebration of their dreams.