New Jersey Marriage License & Officiant Requirements

Your step-by-step checklist

1. Both partners apply for a marriage license at the issuing office for the area where you'll marry (most require both of you to appear in person).
2. Bring valid government-issued photo ID for each partner; some offices also require proof of age, Social Security number, or, if applicable, divorce/death records from prior marriages.
3. Pay the license fee (varies by county) and observe any waiting period before the license is valid. In New Jersey, the waiting period is 3 days.
4. Have your ceremony performed by an authorized officiant within the license's validity window. In New Jersey, the license is valid for 30 days.
5. Your officiant and witnesses (if required) sign the license, and the officiant returns it to the issuing office by the deadline.
6. Request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the issuing office for your records.

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This is general information, not legal advice, and may not reflect recent changes or county-specific rules. Always confirm the current requirements with your local clerk before finalizing your plans. Last reviewed: September 2026. See our Terms

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