How long is an Ohio marriage license valid for?

Full question:

I Live in Ohio and will be getting my marriage license this week. How long is it valid for? Is there any provision that speaks to this?

Category: Marriage
Subcategory: License
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Ohio

Answer:

A marriage license is valid for 60 days. The relevant statute is ORC Ann. 3101.07. It reads:

“No marriage license shall be effective nor shall it authorize the performance of a marriage ceremony after the expiration of sixty days from the date of issuance. This provision shall be printed on each license in prominent type.”

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What makes a marriage valid in Ohio?

A marriage is considered valid in Ohio when both parties are at least 18 years old, have obtained a marriage license, and have participated in a marriage ceremony performed by an authorized officiant. Additionally, both parties must consent to the marriage, and it must be legally recognized by the state. Ohio law does not require witnesses, but it is common to have them present during the ceremony. For detailed requirements, refer to Ohio Revised Code Ann. 3101.01. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

How long do you have to turn in a marriage license in Ohio?

In Ohio, the completed marriage license must be returned to the issuing probate court within ten days after the marriage ceremony. This ensures that the marriage is officially recorded. If the license is not returned within this timeframe, it may not be valid for legal purposes. It is important to follow this requirement to ensure your marriage is recognized by the state. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What constitutes a legal marriage in Ohio?

A legal marriage in Ohio requires a valid marriage license and a ceremony conducted by an authorized officiant. Both parties must be present and give their consent to marry. The marriage must also comply with state laws, including age requirements and the absence of legal impediments, such as existing marriages. Following these guidelines ensures that the marriage is legally recognized in Ohio. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What makes a marriage official in Ohio?

A marriage becomes official in Ohio once the couple has obtained a marriage license and completed a marriage ceremony conducted by an authorized officiant. The officiant must sign the marriage license, which is then filed with the probate court to record the marriage officially. This process ensures that the marriage is recognized by the state and provides legal documentation of the union. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What do you do with a marriage license after getting married in Ohio?

After getting married in Ohio, the officiant must complete the marriage license by signing it and noting the date of the ceremony. The completed license should be returned to the probate court that issued it within ten days. This step is crucial for the marriage to be officially recorded and recognized by the state. Once filed, you can request a certified copy for your records. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

How far in advance do you get a marriage license?

In Ohio, you can apply for a marriage license up to 60 days before your wedding ceremony. It is advisable to obtain the license a few weeks in advance to allow time for any necessary paperwork or issues that may arise. Keep in mind that the license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, so plan accordingly to ensure it is still valid on your wedding day. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.