How long do you have to file your marriage license in Michigan?

Answered by Jason Smith

In Michigan, there is a waiting period for filing a marriage license. This means that the license is void unless the marriage is solemnized within 33 days from the date of application. This waiting period is in place to ensure that couples have enough time to complete all the necessary paperwork and preparations before their marriage ceremony.

It is important to note that the marriage license is only valid within the state of Michigan. This means that if you plan to get married in another state or country, you will need to obtain a marriage license from that specific jurisdiction. Each state and country has its own rules and requirements for obtaining a marriage license, so it is crucial to research and understand the regulations of the location where you plan to get married.

To apply for a marriage license in Michigan, you will need to visit the county clerk’s office in the county where you or your partner reside. Both partners must appear in person and provide certain documents, such as proof of age and identification. The county clerk’s office will also require a fee to process the application, so it is important to check the specific fee amount with your county clerk.

Once you have obtained your marriage license, it is essential to plan your wedding ceremony within the 33-day window. This means coordinating with your chosen officiant, arranging for any necessary permits or reservations for your wedding venue, and ensuring that all other aspects of your wedding are in order.

It is worth mentioning that the waiting period and expiration of a marriage license can cause some logistical challenges for couples. For example, if you apply for a marriage license too far in advance of your planned wedding date, you may run the risk of the license expiring before your ceremony takes place. On the other hand, if you wait until the last minute to apply for your license, you may find it difficult to secure all the necessary arrangements within the 33-day window.

In my personal experience, my partner and I had to carefully plan the timing of our wedding to ensure that we obtained and utilized our marriage license within the required timeframe. We made sure to communicate with our county clerk’s office, officiant, and wedding venue to ensure that everything was in place before the expiration date of our license. It required a bit of coordination and organization, but ultimately we were able to have a beautiful wedding ceremony within the legal parameters.

In Michigan, you have 33 days to file your marriage license after the date of application. This waiting period is in place to ensure that couples have ample time to complete all necessary preparations for their wedding ceremony. It is important to remember that the license is only valid within the state of Michigan, so if you plan to get married elsewhere, you will need to obtain a license from that specific jurisdiction. Careful planning and coordination are crucial to ensure that you utilize your marriage license within the required timeframe.