If you're ready to take the plunge, here's how to get your marriage license. I did it in 1999 and it's not too tough.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 30 minutes
Here's How:
- In Franklin County, marriage licenses are only available at the Franklin County Courthouse, 373 S. High St., 23rd Floor. The Marriage License office is only open 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, closed legal holidays.
- Both the prospective bride and groom must personally appear together with $45 cash or money order (no checks or credit) Each must have a valid driver's license, state I.D. or birth certificate along with a social security card.
- At least one applicant must live in Franklin County. Both applicants must provide name, age, address, place and date of birth, occupation, social security number, father's name and mother's maiden name.
- If one or both parties are 16 or 17 years of age, they must contact the Probate Court at (614) 462-3108 before applying for a license.
- If an applicant's last name is not the same as their father or as registered on their birth certificate, documentation must be provided explaining why.
- If divorced or widowed, an applicant must bring a certified copy of their divorce decree or deceased spouse's death certificate.
- If all documentation is provided, marriage licenses are available at the time you complete the application process. Blood tests are no longer required.
- The license is valid for 60 days and is valid anywhere in the state of Ohio.
- If you have further questions, contact the Marriage License office at (614) 462-3898.
Tips:
- Be prepared to pay several dollars to park, I could not find anything cheap in the area. Some have reported finding parking in the $1 to $2 range, however.
- Marriage license applications are available along the wall when you enter the office; don't waste time waiting for instructions, just get started on the application first.
What You Need:
- Drivers license
- State id if no license
- Social Security card
- $45 cash only
- Up to $10 for parking
