Make It Official: Getting Your Marriage License
We get planning your wedding can be a lot: florals, desserts, guests, lodging, decor, photographers, and the list goes on. One of the not-so-glamorous things is getting your marriage license and making sure it gets signed and turned in. You might not have a clue where to start and that is totally okay! We wrote this blog because we saw a recurring theme: in the midst of all the party planning couples realized they had no idea how or where to get their licenses.
Photo by Kelsey Kaplan Photography
Let’s start with the basics…
What is a marriage license and why do you need it?
A marriage license is what makes you married in the eyes of the government (the county, state, and country). Just like a driver’s license it is a government document. You must sign it within 35 days of getting married (the ceremony).
Where do I get my license and how much does it cost?
In La Plata County (if you're in Durango), it costs $30 and you can obtain the license at the County Clerk’s office. To make the process go as smoothly as possible both of you should go together and have a valid photo ID. If one of you is not able to make it you will need to fill out special paperwork.
What else do I need to know?
In Colorado, you do not need to take a blood test (to make sure you aren’t related). You also have three options to actually “get married”:
A Judge or Magistrate can perform the ceremony
A person of the cloth (i.e. a Deacon, Minister, Priest, etc)
You can sign the license as the officiant and the bride/groom.
Also, in Colorado, you can have your dog witness your license by inking their paw on the line. How cute?!
Here is a link to the La Plata County Marriage License page as well as an FAQ page.
Photo by Evie Joy Photography
