So, you’ve found the love of your life and you’re ready to take the next big step—marriage. And where better to tie the knot than in the picturesque state of Idaho? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of how to get married in Idaho, making it as smooth as the Snake River itself.
Check Idaho’s Marriage License Requirements
First things first, you need to make sure you meet Idaho’s marriage license requirements. This isn’t a hurdle, but more of a stepping stone on your path to matrimony. Here’s what you need to know:
Age: You and your partner must be at least 18 years old to get married in Idaho without parental consent. If you’re 16 or 17, you’ll need a signed consent from your parents or guardians. Lovebirds under 16, however, need both parental consent and court approval.
Identification: When it comes to proving your identity, Idaho isn’t picky. You can use any government-issued ID. It could be a driver’s license, passport, or even a military ID. Just make sure it has your photo and birth date on it.
Residency: Here’s some good news—you don’t need to be an Idaho resident to get married here. Visitors are welcome to say their vows amidst Idaho’s beautiful landscapes.
Previous Marriages: If either of you has been married before, don’t forget to bring your divorce decree or your former spouse’s death certificate.
Waiting Period: In some states, you have to twiddle your thumbs before you can get married. But not in Idaho! There’s no waiting period here.
Expiration: Once you’ve got your marriage license, don’t dawdle. It’s only valid for a year, so make sure you say “I do” before it expires.
Blood Test: Remember those mandatory pre-marriage blood tests? Well, you can forget about them. Idaho doesn’t require it.
So there you have it—the basics on how to get married in Idaho, starting with the legalities. Navigating the marriage license requirements might seem daunting, but really, it’s as easy as Idaho’s famous potatoes. Stay tuned for the next step: applying for the marriage license.
Apply for a Marriage License
Now that you’ve checked off the requirements, let’s move on to the next important step: applying for a marriage license. This is an essential part of the “how to get married in Idaho” handbook. Let’s break it down:
Where to Apply: You and your partner need to apply for the marriage license together. So, grab your loved one’s hand and head to the County Clerk’s office in any county in Idaho.
What to Bring: Remember those IDs we talked about? Bring them along. If you’ve been married before, don’t forget your divorce decree or your previous spouse’s death certificate.
Fees: Love might be priceless, but unfortunately, marriage licenses aren’t. In Idaho, the cost varies by county and is usually around $30. Be sure to bring cash, as not all counties accept cards.
Issuance and Validity: As we mentioned earlier, Idaho doesn’t believe in waiting. You’ll get your marriage license issued immediately, and it’s valid for a year.
Who Can Marry You: Once you’ve got the license, you’re almost there. Now you just need someone to officiate the ceremony. This can be any ordained or licensed clergymen, judges, or other designated officials.
Applying for a marriage license is just another step on your journey of how to get married in Idaho. Once you’ve got it in hand, you’re one step closer to saying “I do”. But before we get to the vows, let’s talk about planning your Idaho wedding ceremony.
Plan Your Wedding Ceremony
Alright, you’ve got your license in hand. What’s next on the how to get married in Idaho checklist? Your wedding ceremony, of course!
Location, Location, Location: Idaho offers a variety of stunning locations for your special day. Whether you dream of a rustic farm wedding in the heart of the Boise countryside or a sophisticated downtown event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho has you covered.
Who’s Invited?: Now that you’ve picked your spot, it’s time to figure out your guest list. This one’s all up to you and your partner. Whether it’s a grand affair or a more intimate gathering, make sure it’s a day you’ll cherish.
Who’s Doing What?: From the best man to the flower girl, determine who’ll take on the key roles on your big day. Remember, it’s your wedding—there’s no right or wrong way to do it.
Party Time: After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate with your loved ones. Whether it’s a simple cake and champagne toast or a full-blown party with a live band, plan a reception that fits your style.
Remember the Legal Parts: Amidst all the excitement, don’t forget the legalities. The person who married you needs to return the signed marriage license to the County Clerk’s office for it to be recorded.
See? Planning your Idaho wedding ceremony doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little organization and a lot of love, you’re well on your way to understanding exactly how to get married in Idaho. Now, let’s move on to the final step—registering your marriage in Idaho.
Register Your Marriage in Idaho
Okay, you’ve said your I do’s, had your first dance, and eaten a slice of wedding cake—what’s next in the process of how to get married in Idaho? It’s time to make it official and register your marriage.
Return of the License: After the ceremony, the officiant, whether that’s a judge, minister, or a friend who got ordained online, is responsible for returning the signed marriage license to the County Clerk’s office. This step ensures your marriage is legally recognized and recorded.
Get a Copy: Once your marriage has been officially recorded, it’s a good idea to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document serves as legal proof of your marriage and might come in handy for things like changing your name or filing joint taxes.
Timeline: There’s no rush—Idaho law allows up to 30 days after the ceremony for the signed license to be returned and recorded. But why wait? Get it done while the memories of your special day are still fresh.
And… You’re Married: With the return of the license and the receipt of your marriage certificate, you’ve officially tied the knot in the Gem State.
See? Learning how to get married in Idaho doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these steps, you’re well on your way to happily ever after in Idaho. Congratulations on your new journey!