Getting Married in the State of New Jersey

Here's what you need to know to make the marriage legal in New Jersey.

In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license.

When you apply for your license, you'll not only need a proof of identification and age, will need to provide any information about previous marriages, and will need to pay a nominal fee.

ID Requirement Some towns will require proof of residency.
Any of the following documents will be accepted:

• Valid Driver's License
• A Lease
• A Tax Return
  
  Residency Requirement: None. However, requirements may vary from county to county.

Application Requirement: Applications for NJ marriage licenses must be obtained at the municipal office in the bride's town. If the bride does not live in the state of New Jersey, you can apply at the municipal office of the groom's town. If both the bride and groom are from out of state, apply at the municipal office of the town where the ceremony will take place.

If Divorced: If either the man or woman was married before, they must show that they have gotten divorced or had the previous marriage annulled.

Fees: $28.00 - Cash Only.

Waiting Period: 3 days.

Blood Tests: No tests.

Under 18: Applicants must both be at least 18 years old, with one exception.

• Applicants under 18 can marry if both parents consent to the marriage. The consent must be given under oath in front of two witnesses.
• Male: 16 or younger parties may marry with parental consent and/or permission of judge. Younger parties may obtain license in case of pregnancy or birth of child.
• Female: 16 or younger parties may marry with parental consent and/or permission of judge. Younger parties may obtain license in case of pregnancy or birth of child.

Marriage Ceremony: The marriage ceremony can be performed by:

• Any Federal, State, Municipal judge or magistrate (even if they are retired);
• Any county clerk;
• Any mayor or deputy mayor of a town;
• Chairman of any township committee;
• Any religious minister.

The individual performing the ceremony should file the license with the registrar in the municipality where the marriage took place within 5 days of the wedding.

Valid: License is valid for 30 days.
The license can only be used within the State of New Jersey.

New Jersey Clerk's Office