Marriage License

Getting married is one of the most significant events in a person’s life, and securing a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. If you’re planning to marry in Franklin County, Ohio, it's essential to understand the requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the Franklin County OH marriage license application process. This comprehensive guide will ensure that you’re fully prepared for your big day.

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is a legal document issued by the county probate court that authorizes a couple to marry in a specific jurisdiction. In Franklin County, Ohio, both residents and non-residents of the county can apply for a marriage license to be used within Ohio. However, there are certain eligibility requirements and procedures that must be followed to obtain this license.

How to Apply for a Franklin County OH Marriage License

To apply for a marriage license in Franklin County, you must first complete an online application. The application process is straightforward, but you need to make sure you fulfill all the necessary requirements before heading to the court. Here's an overview of the application process:

Complete the Online Application

Before visiting the Franklin County Probate Court, both applicants must complete the online marriage license application form. The application is only valid for 30 days, so make sure to submit it within that period before appearing in person.

You can start your application on the official Franklin County Probate Court Marriage Department page.

In-Person Appearance

After submitting your online application, both applicants must appear in person at the Franklin County Probate Court to finalize the marriage license process. You must do this between Monday and Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Keep in mind that the license will only be issued if both parties are present and arrive before 4:00 PM.

Submit Identification

At the court, both applicants must provide a valid, unexpired photo ID that includes their birth date. This can include a driver’s license, state-issued ID, or passport. If you are a resident of Franklin County, proof of residency will also be required. This could be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement.

Pay the License Fee

The cost of a marriage license in Franklin County is $65. You can pay this fee using cash or a credit/debit card. Note that there is a 3% service charge for credit/debit card payments. Be sure to bring the appropriate payment method with you.

Swear or Affirm Your Information

Both applicants must swear or affirm that all information provided is true and complete. This step is crucial, as any false information could invalidate the marriage license.

Requirements for Applicants

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to ensure that both you and your partner meet the eligibility criteria set by the Franklin County Probate Court.

Age Requirement

Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Franklin County. If either applicant is under the age of 18, additional steps must be taken. The minor must first file a petition for consent to marry with the Franklin County Juvenile Court, and the marriage license will only be issued 14 days after a final consent order is filed.

Marital Status

Both applicants must be unmarried at the time of application. If either applicant has been previously married, they must provide a certified copy of their most recent divorce decree or annulment. If a marriage ended due to death, a certified copy of the spouse’s death certificate must be provided.

Relationship Requirement

The applicants must not be closer than second cousins. Any applicants who are closely related by blood may not apply for a marriage license.

Proof of Residency

If you are a resident of Franklin County, one of you must provide proof of residency. If your photo ID does not list a Franklin County address, other acceptable documents include a bank statement, lease agreement, or utility bill from the past 30 days.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you submit your online application and provide the necessary documents, you’ll receive your marriage license the same day you appear in person at the court. There is no waiting period, so you can marry immediately after receiving the license. The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, and it can be used for weddings anywhere in Ohio.

If there is an error on your marriage license after issuance, it is important to address it quickly. Minor errors can be corrected for a $5 fee, while amending the application to include additional marriages requires both applicants to sign the correction in front of a notary. This correction costs $35.

Who Can Perform a Marriage in Franklin County?

In Franklin County, a marriage must be solemnized by an officiant who is registered with the Ohio Secretary of State. This can include ordained ministers, judges, mayors, or the Superintendent of the State School for the Deaf. If you plan to have a civil ceremony, you can schedule it with the Franklin County Municipal Court.

Ordering a Certified Marriage Abstract

After your marriage ceremony, you can request a certified marriage abstract (a record of your marriage). This is especially useful for legal purposes, such as changing your name or updating your records. You can obtain this abstract in person, by mail, or online.

Fees for Marriage Abstracts

The fee for a certified marriage abstract is $2 per copy. If you wish to order it online, the Franklin County Probate Court offers an online payment option through Point & Pay. A service charge of $1.00 per transaction applies to online orders.

Franklin County Marriage License Offices and Contact Information

Here are the relevant departments and contact details for obtaining a marriage license in Franklin County:

Franklin County Probate Court – Marriage Department

Address: 373 S. High Street, 23rd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 525-3108
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Franklin County Clerk of Courts – Civil Division

Address: 375 S. High Street, 3rd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 645-7220
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Franklin County Municipal Court – Weddings

Address: 375 S. High Street, 10th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 645-8214
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

For further inquiries or to apply for your marriage license, you can visit the Franklin County Probate Court Marriage Department page.

Franklin County Marriage License FAQs

What Are the Requirements for a Franklin County Marriage License?

To obtain a marriage license in Franklin County, both applicants must appear in person at the Probate Court. Each applicant must provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, at least one applicant must be a resident of Franklin County, with proof of residency provided if the photo ID does not show a local address. This can include a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or other official documents. The marriage license fee is $65, payable by cash or credit/debit card (a 3% service charge applies to card payments). For more details on residency and other documentation, refer to the marriage license requirements page.

Is There a Waiting Period for a Marriage License in Franklin County?

No, there is no waiting period in Franklin County. Once your application is processed, you can receive your marriage license the same day. However, the license is valid for 60 days, and the ceremony must take place within that period. If you miss this window, a new license must be issued. For more information on the validity of the license, visit the marriage license page.

What Happens if There Is an Error on My Marriage License?

If you notice an error on your marriage license, you should address it as soon as possible. Minor errors can be corrected for a fee of $5. If the error involves more complex changes, such as the inclusion of previous marriages, the fee increases to $35. Both applicants must sign in front of a notary for these corrections. For more information on corrections, check the marriage license application page.

Who Can Officiate My Wedding in Franklin County?

In Franklin County, a marriage can be solemnized by an officiant who is registered with the Ohio Secretary of State, including ordained ministers, judges, mayors, and the Superintendent of the State School for the Deaf. If you are interested in a civil ceremony, you can schedule one with the Franklin County Municipal Court. More details on officiants and civil ceremonies are available here.