Navigating the Marriage License Process in Bergen County, NJ

The Bridal Tip

Getting married is an exciting milestone in anyone’s life. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Bergen County, New Jersey, it’s important to understand the marriage license requirements and process. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to obtain your Bergen County marriage license smoothly.

Proof of Identity and Residency

To apply for a marriage license in Bergen County, you will need to provide proof of your identity and residency. Accepted forms of identification include your driver’s license, passport, or state/federal ID. Make sure your identification is valid and up-to-date to avoid any complications.

In addition to proof of identity, you will also need to establish your residency in Bergen County. This can be done by providing documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, or any other official documents that clearly indicate your current address in the county.

Social Security Card or Number

Another requirement for obtaining a marriage license in Bergen County is providing your social security card or social security number. This is necessary for legal purposes and ensures that your marriage is properly documented.

When applying for a marriage license, you will need to have a witness present who is 18 years of age or older. This witness will be required to sign the application form, confirming that the information provided is accurate.

Marriage License Application Fee and Waiting Period

There is a $28 application fee for a marriage license in Bergen County. This fee is payable at the time of application, so make sure to bring the necessary funds.

It’s also important to note that there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued. This waiting period begins when the application is filed with the Local Registrar. However, if you are remarrying, there is no 72-hour waiting period, but you must bring a certified copy of your existing marriage.

Online Application Option

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 135 allows couples to apply for their marriage license using audio-visual technology, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the registrar’s office. This option provides convenience and ensures the safety of couples during these challenging times.

Obtaining a Copy of Your Marriage License

If you need a copy of your marriage license, you can contact the municipality where the license was originally obtained. They may be able to provide you with a copy. Alternatively, you can contact the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services – Vital Records at (609) 292-4087 for assistance.

Getting a marriage license in Bergen County, New Jersey involves a few important steps, including providing proof of identity and residency, a social security card or number, and having a witness present. There is also a waiting period and an application fee. However, with the option of online applications and the help of the local registrar’s office, obtaining a marriage license in Bergen County can be a smooth and straightforward process.

How To Get A Marriage License In Bergen County?

To obtain a marriage license in Bergen County, New Jersey, you need to follow these steps:

1. Gather the necessary documents: You will need to provide proof of identity by presenting a valid driver’s license, passport, or state/federal identification. Additionally, you must show proof of residency, which can be done by presenting documents such as utility bills or a lease agreement. You will also be required to provide your social security card or social security number.

2. Find a witness: You need to have a witness who is at least 18 years old accompany you to the Bergen County Clerk’s Office when applying for the marriage license. This witness should be someone who knows you well and can attest to your identity.

3. Visit the Bergen County Clerk’s Office: Go to the Bergen County Clerk’s Office, located at the Bergen County Justice Center, 10 Main Street, Room 130, Hackensack, NJ 07601. This is where you will fill out the marriage license application.

4. Pay the application fee: The marriage license application fee in Bergen County is $28. Be prepared to pay this fee at the time of application. Cash, personal checks, or money orders are typically accepted forms of payment.

5. Complete the application form: Fill out the marriage license application form provided by the Clerk’s Office. Provide accurate information, including your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and the full name of your intended spouse.

6. Review and sign the application: Carefully review the completed application form for any errors or omissions. Once you are satisfied, sign the application along with your witness.

7. Obtain the marriage license: After submitting the application, the Clerk’s Office will process it and issue you a marriage license. This license is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

Remember, it is essential to plan ahead and allow enough time to complete the application process before your wedding date. It is recommended to contact the Bergen County Clerk’s Office directly or visit their website for any specific requirements or updates related to obtaining a marriage license in Bergen County, New Jersey.

bergen county marriage license

How Long Does It Take To Get A Marriage License In NJ?

In New Jersey, obtaining a marriage license involves a waiting period of 72 hours. This waiting period starts from the time you file your application with the Local Registrar. However, it is important to note that if you are remarrying, there is no 72-hour waiting period. In such cases, you will need to bring a certified copy of your existing marriage as proof.

To summarize, here is the information in a bullet list:

– Obtaining a marriage license in NJ requires a 72-hour waiting period.
– The waiting period begins when you file your application with the Local Registrar.
– Remarriage does not have a 72-hour waiting period.
– For remarriage, you must bring a certified copy of your existing marriage.

It is essential to keep these timeframes and requirements in mind when planning your wedding or remarriage in New Jersey.

Can You Get A NJ Marriage License Online?

You cannot obtain a New Jersey marriage license online. However, due to the ongoing Public Health Emergency, Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 135 allows couples to apply for their marriage or civil union license using audio-visual technology with a local registrar. This means that couples are not required to appear in-person to obtain the license.

Here are the key points to note:

– Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 135 allows couples to use audio-visual technology to apply for their marriage or civil union license.
– This measure is in effect for the duration of the Public Health Emergency.
– Couples are not required to physically visit the local registrar’s office to obtain the license.
– The use of audio-visual technology allows couples to complete the application process remotely.
– This measure aims to facilitate the marriage or civil union process while maintaining social distancing and minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Please note that this information is accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to change. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities or the New Jersey Department of Health for the most up-to-date information regarding marriage license applications during the Public Health Emergency.

How Do I Get My Marriage Certificate In NJ?

To obtain a copy of your marriage certificate in New Jersey, you can follow these steps:

1. Contact the municipality where the marriage license was originally obtained. This is typically the town or city where the ceremony took place. You can search for the contact information of the municipality online or through directory services.

2. Reach out to the municipality by phone or email to inquire about the process of obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate. Provide them with the necessary details such as your full names, date of the marriage, and any other requested information.

3. The municipality will guide you on the specific requirements and fees for obtaining the marriage certificate. They may require you to fill out an application form or provide identification documents to prove your identity.

4. Complete any necessary forms and submit them to the municipality along with the required fees. Make sure to follow their instructions carefully to avoid any delays in processing your request.

5. Once your application is received and processed, the municipality will issue a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This copy is considered an official document and can be used for legal purposes.

If you are unable to contact the municipality or if the marriage took place a long time ago, you can also try contacting the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services – Vital Records. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to obtain a copy of your marriage certificate. Their phone number is (609) 292-4087.

Remember to be patient throughout the process, as it may take some time to receive your marriage certificate.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Bergen County, New Jersey requires certain documentation and adherence to specific procedures. To apply for a marriage license, couples must provide proof of identity, residency, and social security number. Accepted forms of identification include a driver’s license, passport, or state/federal ID. Additionally, a witness who is 18 years or older must be present during the application process.

It is important to note that there is a 72-hour waiting period before the marriage license is issued. This waiting period begins when the application is filed with the Local Registrar. However, if it is a remarriage, the waiting period does not apply, but a certified copy of the existing marriage must be presented.

During the current public health emergency, couples have the option to apply for their marriage license remotely using audio-visual technology, eliminating the need for an in-person visit to the Local Registrar’s office.

If a copy of the marriage license is required, couples can contact the municipality where the license was originally obtained. If unavailable, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services – Vital Records can be contacted for assistance.

The process of obtaining a marriage license in Bergen County, New Jersey is straightforward, but it is essential to fulfill all the necessary requirements and follow the specified waiting period.