Embarking on the journey of marriage is a significant milestone that requires careful planning and preparation. If you’re considering getting married in South Carolina (SC), understanding the legal requirements and necessary documentation is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free wedding process. This article provides a comprehensive guide on what you need to get married in South Carolina, from obtaining a marriage license to fulfilling the necessary legal procedures.
Obtaining a Marriage License
Residency Requirements:
South Carolina does not have residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license. Both residents and non-residents can apply.
Age Requirement:
The legal age to get married in South Carolina is 18. If either party is under 18, parental consent is required.
Application Process:
To obtain a marriage license, both parties must appear in person at a South Carolina Probate Court with valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will need to fill out an application and pay the required fee.
Waiting Period:
There is no waiting period in South Carolina. Once you obtain the marriage license, you can get married immediately.
Expiration of License:
The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. You must marry within this time frame or reapply for a new license.
Required Documentation
When preparing to get married in South Carolina, ensuring that you have the necessary documentation is a critical step in the process. Proper documentation helps establish your eligibility and compliance with legal requirements. Here’s a detailed overview of the required documentation for obtaining a marriage license and getting married in the state:
Proof of Identity:Valid identification is essential to confirm your identity and eligibility for marriage. Both parties must present one of the following forms of photo identification:
Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license issued by any state or country.
Passport: A current and valid passport issued by a government agency.
Military ID: An official military identification card.
It’s crucial that the identification presented is not expired and includes accurate and up-to-date information.
Proof of Age:In South Carolina, the legal age to get married without parental consent is 18. If either party is under 18 but at least 16, parental consent is required. Documentation to establish age includes:
Birth Certificate:An official birth certificate issued by a government agency serves as proof of age
Parental Consent Form:If either party is under 18, a parental consent form signed by the parent or legal guardian must be submitted. This form typically requires notarization.
Proof of Marital Status:If either party has been previously married, documentation is required to verify their current marital status. This documentation includes:
Divorce Decree: If either party has been previously divorced, a certified copy of the divorce decree is needed. This document shows that the previous marriage has been legally dissolved.
Annulment Certificate: If either party has had a previous marriage annulled, an official annulment certificate must be provided.
Death Certificate: If a previous spouse has passed away, a certified copy of the death certificate is required to establish that the prior marriage has ended due to death.
Additional Considerations:
Name Change Documentation: If either party has legally changed their name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, documentation of the name change (such as a court order) may be necessary.
Foreign Language Documents: If any of the required documentation is not in English, it must be translated into English by a certified translator.
Waiting Period and Expiration: Once the marriage license is issued, it is valid for 30 days. Ensure that you schedule your marriage ceremony within this time frame to avoid having to reapply for a new license.
Legal Ceremony and Officiants
Authorized Officiants:A marriage ceremony in South Carolina can be performed by an ordained minister, a judge, or other recognized officiants.
Witnesses:South Carolina does not require witnesses to be present during the ceremony.
After the Ceremony
After the ceremony, the officiant will complete the marriage license and return it to the issuing Probate Court for recording. You can then request a certified copy of the marriage certificate for legal purposes.
Conclusion
Getting married in South Carolina involves obtaining a marriage license, adhering to the legal requirements, and celebrating your union through a legally recognized ceremony. By understanding the application process, required documentation, and the role of officiants, you can navigate the process smoothly and begin your marital journey with confidence. Remember to research specific county requirements, as some details may vary. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, South Carolina provides a beautiful backdrop for couples to exchange their vows and embark on a lifelong journey of love and commitment.