Marriage license in Rhode Island

Answer 1

How to Apply for a Marriage License

Individuals marrying in Rhode Island must apply for a marriage license at a city or town clerk's office. State law restricts the ability of cities and towns to issue marriage licenses statewide. The license is valid for three months after the issuance date. The marriage must take place in the presence of the officiant (the person performing the marriage) and two witnesses age 18 or older.

What You Should Do

Go to the correct city or town clerk office

The bride and groom must apply for the license in person and sign the application in the presence of a city or town clerk or assistant. Please be sure to contact the city or town office where you will apply for the license to verify their requirements and hours open to the public.

* Rhode Island residents: If either the bride or groom live in Rhode Island, the couple should apply for the marriage license at the clerk office in the city or town of the bride or groom's residence. In this case, the marriage license is valid in any city or town and the couple may be married anywhere in Rhode Island.

* Non-residents: If both the bride and groom do not live in Rhode Island, the marriage license must be obtained at the clerk office where the ceremony will take place. The couple must marry in the city or town where the license is issued.

Provide required identification and legal documents

Both the bride and groom are responsible for presenting:

* Proof of birth facts (preferably a certified copy of the birth certificate) and a valid form of identification.

* If previously married, a certified copy of the final decree of divorce (with the raised or original stamped court seal) or a certified copy of the death certificate of the previous spouse.

* If bride is younger than age 18 or if either individual is under the control of a legal guardian, a "Minor's Permit to Marry" completed by the parent or legal guardian. The Minor's Permit is available at city and town clerk offices. Men younger than age 18 and women younger than age 16 also need court permission to marry. (more)

Pay for the license

The marriage license costs $24.