Understanding New Jersey Marriage License Requirements

As an officiant performing weddings in New Jersey, it’s crucial to guide couples through the marriage license application process. Applicants must complete the marriage license application form, available at the Local Registrar’s office, and sign it under oath in the presence of the issuing authority​​. Couples must meet certain criteria, such as not being part of another civil union, domestic partnership, or marriage recognized by the state, and both parties must be at least 18 years old​​.

The license application should be submitted in the New Jersey municipality where either party resides. For non-residents, the application must be made in the municipality where the ceremony will be performed, with the license valid only in that specific municipality​​. Required documents include proof of identity (driver’s license, passport, or state/federal I.D.), proof of residency for one applicant if a New Jersey resident, Social Security numbers, a witness who is at least 18 years of age, and a $28 application fee​​.

Once the application is filed, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued, except in the case of a remarriage. The license is valid for six months, extendable to one year with prior approval. If unused within this period, a new application and fee will be required. In cases where both a civil and religious ceremony are performed on the same day, two licenses will be issued, marked “A” and “B”​​.