Planning a wedding? It’s exciting, but also a lot to handle. Think of seating charts, flowers, and of course, the marriage license! Let’s use “Alyson H Belcourt” as our example, to guide you through getting a marriage license in South Carolina.
Think of Alyson as your stand-in. This article provides a simple guide to marriage licenses in South Carolina. It covers rules and steps to help anyone, like Alyson, navigate the process.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina, drawing on common procedures and regulations relevant to individuals like Alyson H Belcourt.
South Carolina Marriage License Requirements: The Essentials
Getting married in South Carolina? You need a marriage license first! You both need to be eligible. You’ll need specific documents too. This covers the basics to get started.
- Both applicants must be at least 18 years old (with exceptions).
- Valid photo ID, like a driver’s license or passport, is needed.
- You’ll need to provide Social Security numbers.
Age and Identification Verification
In South Carolina, you must be 18 to get married without parental consent. If you’re younger, you will need a parent’s permission. Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate. These prove your age and identity.
Under 18? The process is different. You’ll need to involve your parents or guardians and possibly get a court order.
Actionable Tip: Check the county’s specific rules where you plan to apply. Some counties may have additional ID rules.
Social Security Number Requirement
South Carolina needs your Social Security number when you apply for a marriage license. It’s used for record-keeping. You still need a Social Security number, even if you don’t have a physical card.
What if you don’t have a Social Security number? You’ll need to explain why. This is common for people who aren’t US citizens.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your License
Getting your marriage license doesn’t have to be hard. Follow these steps to make it easy! From the application to getting the license, we’ll cover it all.
Completing the Application Form
Find the application form online or at the Probate Court. Fill it out carefully. Mistakes can cause delays.
The form asks for things like names, addresses, and birth dates. Make sure it all matches your IDs.
Actionable Tip: Download the application beforehand. Review it. Gather all the needed info before you start.
Visiting the Probate Court
Next, go to the Probate Court in the county where you’re getting married. Both of you must go. Be ready to show your IDs and completed application.
The court clerk will review your documents. They will ask you questions. Be prepared to answer them.
Actionable Tip: Check the Probate Court’s hours. Some courts need appointments. Don’t just show up without planning.
Understanding the Waiting Period and License Validity
Some states have a waiting period. Licenses also expire. It’s important to know these details.
The 24-Hour Waiting Period
South Carolina has a 24-hour waiting period. This starts when you apply for the license. You can’t get married until this waiting period is over.
Actionable Tip: Plan your application date. Allow time for the waiting period before your wedding day.
License Expiration and Usage
A South Carolina marriage license doesn’t last forever. It usually expires after a certain time. Use it soon after you get it.
The license is only good in South Carolina. You have to get married there. Otherwise, it won’t be legal.
Actionable Tip: Get married before the license expires. Mark the date on your calendar.
Special Circumstances: Addressing Unique Situations
Sometimes, things aren’t so straightforward. Previous marriages or being from out of state can change things. Let’s see at these special cases.
Previous Marriages and Divorce Decrees
Divorced before? You’ll need to show proof. Bring a certified copy of your divorce decree or annulment. The court needs this to confirm you’re free to marry again.
Actionable Tip: Get certified copies of divorce papers. These are official. Regular copies won’t work.
Out-of-State Residents
Live in another state but want to marry in South Carolina? No problem! The process is mostly the same. You’ll still need to follow all South Carolina’s rules.
A couple from North Carolina wants to get married in Charleston. They follow the same steps as South Carolina residents. They apply at the Probate Court in Charleston County.
Post-Marriage: What to Do After the Ceremony
After the wedding, there’s still work to do. You need to make sure your marriage is officially recorded.
Completing and Returning the License
After the ceremony, the officiant fills out the license. You’ll need to sign it too. The officiant then returns it to the Probate Court.
Actionable Tip: Double-check all info. Make sure names and dates are correct. Mistakes can cause issues later.
Obtaining Certified Copies
Need proof of marriage? Get certified copies of your marriage certificate. You’ll need them for legal reasons. Name changes or insurance updates are a couple of reasons for certified copies.
Actionable Tip: Order multiple copies. You might need them in the future. It’s easier to have them on hand.
Conclusion
Getting a marriage license in South Carolina involves a few steps. Knowing the requirements makes it easier. Plan, prepare, and follow these steps!
Remember to gather your documents, complete the application, and understand the timelines. With some preparation, you will be ready to start your lives together. Have a great wedding!
