Requirements for Getting Married in Las Vegas
Your wedding is a unique, special event that you will never forget. Planning such an experience for family and friends can be a lot of work and pressure. With its glitz and glamor, Las Vegas has become a preferred destination for engagement parties and bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as weddings. But don't get too caught up in the excitement before you adequately prepare. Particularly if you're not a Nevada resident, you should be aware of the requirements to get married in Las Vegas.
Types
Nevada only issues marriage licenses for heterosexual couples who are U.S. citizens. A man and woman looking to be married must be at least 18 years old and prepared to show proof of age.
Features
To obtain a marriage license in Nevada, both parties must present a form of current identification (See "Identification" for examples), complete the application form (see Resources) and pay a $60 fee. The fee must be paid in cash.
Identification
In order for the Las Vegas or Nevada clerk's office to identify you and your fiancée, you must present valid identification. The identification you present must have your name on it. Although only one form of ID is required, it's not a bad idea to be prepared with at least two of the following: a driver's License, state-issued identification card, passport, military identification card, voter identification card or birth certificate. You should note that at least one form of your identification must contain your name and photo for verification.
Considerations
Both parties must be present to submit the application for the marriage license. Plan accordingly. If you have been married previously, you must show proof that the prior marriage has been dissolved in the granting state before you can apply for a marriage license in Nevada.
Time Frame
There is no waiting period to obtain a marriage license in Las Vegas. As long as you have all of the necessary documentation and a completed application, you will be issued the license on the same day within about an hour. Once you have been issued your marriage license, you have one full year to have a ceremony. If you do not do so within one year, you will need to reapply for the license.
Misconceptions
There are number of movies showing couples running away to Las Vegas and getting married on a whim---that is not reality. Without proper preparation and without following the procedures of the Nevada clerks, you cannot legally be married in Las Vegas.
More Information
If you have further questions, contact the Clark County Marriage Bureau at (702) 671-0600. They are open every day from 8 a.m. to midnight.
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