how to get married in oklahoma at courthouse

2 min read 16-01-2025

how to get married in oklahoma at courthouse

Getting married in Oklahoma at the courthouse offers a quick, affordable, and straightforward way to tie the knot. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you navigate the requirements and procedures.

What You'll Need Before Your Courthouse Wedding

Before heading to the courthouse, ensure you have the necessary documents and meet the requirements. This will streamline the process and prevent delays.

1. Marriage License:

Obtain a License: You must obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk's office in the county where the wedding ceremony will take place. This is not obtained at the courthouse where you'll have the ceremony.
Identification: Bring valid government-issued photo IDs, such as driver's licenses or passports.
Fees: Be prepared to pay the required marriage license fee. This varies by county, so check beforehand.
Waiting Period: Oklahoma has a 24-hour waiting period after applying for a license before you can get married. Plan accordingly.

2. Witnesses:

Oklahoma law requires two witnesses over the age of 18 to be present during the ceremony. Arrange for these witnesses ahead of time.

3. Officiant:

Who Can Officiate: Oklahoma allows several individuals to officiate weddings, including judges and court clerks. Confirm with your chosen courthouse if they offer officiant services.
Appointment: Many courthouses require appointments, especially for ceremonies performed by a judge or court clerk.

The Courthouse Wedding Ceremony: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have your license and witnesses, you can proceed with the ceremony. Here's what to expect:

1. Check-in:

Arrive at the designated courthouse location at your scheduled time. Check in with the appropriate personnel.

2. The Ceremony:

The ceremony itself is usually brief. The officiant will ask you to affirm your vows and sign the marriage license. Your witnesses will also sign as verification.

3. Receiving Your Certified Marriage Certificate:

After the ceremony, the officiant will usually provide you with a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This is your official proof of marriage.

Choosing Your Courthouse and County

The process is generally the same across Oklahoma counties. However, individual courthouses may have slightly different procedures or requirements. It's best to call the County Clerk's office in the county you plan to get married in to confirm specifics, such as:

Specific requirements: Verify any unique requirements for your chosen county.
Fees: Confirm the exact marriage license fee.
Appointment scheduling: Schedule your courthouse wedding ceremony appointment in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Oklahoma Courthouse Weddings

Q: How much does it cost to get married at an Oklahoma courthouse?

A: The cost varies depending on the county. The primary cost is the marriage license fee, which can range from approximately $25 to $100 or more. There may be additional fees depending on services provided by the courthouse. Contact your chosen county clerk for exact pricing.

Q: Can I get married at any Oklahoma courthouse?

A: You must obtain the marriage license from the county where you will get married, though you don't need to get married at the same courthouse where the license is obtained. Check if your preferred courthouse performs wedding ceremonies.

Q: What if I don't have witnesses?

A: You must have two witnesses over 18 years old present at the ceremony. Ensure you have these arranged beforehand; the courthouse likely won't provide them.

Q: Do I need an appointment?

A: Many courthouses require appointments for courthouse weddings, especially if you want a judge or clerk to officiate.

By following these steps and preparing the necessary documentation, you can easily and affordably get married at an Oklahoma courthouse. Remember to confirm details with your chosen courthouse and county clerk’s office for a smooth and memorable experience.