Marriage Records

Marriage Records

Why a Marriage Record is Needed

When a couple gets married, a marriage record is filled out. This record is also referred to as a license or a certificate. A marriage record is a legal document, allowing a couple to be legally married. Forms can be obtained from a government agency, on the internet and sometimes at a church.

All marriage records contain at least the bride's full name and the groom's full name, the wedding date and the county and state in which the marriage took place. Quite often, the marriage record will also include: the names and birthplaces of the parents of the bride and groom, the addresses of the bride and groom, and the names of the witnesses to the marriage.

A marriage record is proof that a couple is legally married. Should something happen to the husband for example, a marriage license protects the rights of the wife. She will be given full rights and support by law.

There are two types of marriage licenses: public marriage license and confidential license.

Public Marriage License is a record that states that a couple has been wed. The bride and groom have to meet a minimum age requirement and there has to be a witness present at the ceremony.

Confidential Marriage License is also referred to as a private marriage license and does not require the presence of a witness. Both the bride and groom must sign an affidavit attesting their ages. A copy of a confidential marriage license can only be obtained by the married couple. A research site nor state office can obtain a copy.

Marriage records are kept on file at the Office of Vital Records in the county in which the bride and groom were married in. An original copy is given to the couple. However, if the original is lost or there is a need for an extra copy, a copy of the marriage record can be obtained by writing to the Vital Statistics Office in the county where the marriage took place. When requesting a copy, be sure to follow these steps.

How to request a copy of a marriage record

• Keep your letter brief and to the point.
• State the purpose for requesting a copy.
• Type or print all names and addresses.
• Provide specific information, such as wedding date, location, and bride's maiden name.
• Some states will require your driver's license number and the state it's issued from.
• Enclose a check for the specified amount.
• Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.

When requesting a copy of the marriage record, there will most likely be a fee. Check with the state or county's Office of Vital Records for specific requirements.

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