How to obtain a marriage license.....
To apply for a marriage license, both parties must appear in person together at the city/town clerk's office.
Each must be at least 18 years of age.
Be sure to bring proper identification with you when you file your intentions.
You can file your intentions in any city or town in Massachusetts.
When one party is in the military and cannot apply in person for the license the other party can file alone as long as he/she can provide proof that the other party is on active duty in the military.
There is a mandatory three day waiting period from the date the "intention" is filed. This waiting period can only be waived with a court order.
The intention is valid for sixty (60) days from the date you filed, not the date you picked up your marriage license.
Your license can be used to marry in any city or town in Massachusetts.
There is no requirement in Massachusetts to have witnesses present for your marriage to be valid or legal. The officiant is sufficient.
No blood tests are required to obtain a marriage license.
Please keep in mind.....
You should file your intentions 4 - 6 weeks prior to your wedding day.
Filing fees vary from city to city so you should contact the clerk's office to verify the cost in advance.
If one or both of you have been divorced you may want to contact the town clerk's office to find out if proof of divorce is required when you file your intentions.
Be sure to provide your marriage license to your officiant prior to your wedding as he/she is unable to perform your ceremony without it in his/her possession.
Your officiant is the only person who can submit your executed marriage license to the city/town for filing.
After your wedding your certified marriage license can only be obtained from the city/town that issued it.