NJ Marriage License Info
Love and Licenses in the Garden State: Your Guide to Getting Married in New Jersey
Learn the answers to all of your wedding ceremony questions:
How do we get married in NJ?
How do we elope in NJ?
Who can marry us in NJ?
Welcome, lovebirds! 🥂
Ah, New Jersey—the state where the bagels are legendary, the beaches are stunning, and weddings come with their own unique flair. If you’re planning to tie the knot here, you might already know we don’t have Justices of the Peace like some other states. But don’t worry! New Jersey has plenty of options to make your wedding ceremony just as magical as you’ve imagined. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about getting married in the Garden State.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in New Jersey
Before you can say “I do,” you’ll need one very important piece of paper: your marriage license. Without it, your big day can’t legally happen. The good news? It’s not hard to get, as long as you follow these simple steps:
- Gather Your Documents:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID).
- Proof of residency (if one or both of you live in NJ).
- Fill Out the Application:
- You can pick up a marriage license application from the registrar’s office in the town where one of you resides. If neither of you lives in NJ, apply in the town where your ceremony will take place.
- Plan for the Waiting Period:
- There’s a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between applying for the license and receiving it. Be sure to plan ahead so there’s no last-minute scramble!
- Bring Your Witness:
- You’ll need a witness (18 or older) to accompany you when applying for your license.
Pro tip: Double-check office hours and holiday schedules for the registrar to avoid surprises.
Choosing the Right Wedding Officiant
Who Can Officiate in NJ?
New Jersey offers a variety of officiants to choose from, including:
- Judges
- Clergy members
- Certified officiants
Yes, even a friend or family member can officiate your wedding if they become ordained online. This might sound like a good idea, but look at some YouTube videos about how things could go wrong.
Why Your Officiant Matters
Your officiant sets the tone for your ceremony. Whether you want something lighthearted, heartfelt, or deeply personal, choosing someone who connects with your love story is key. Think of them as the director of the most meaningful performance of your life—they make sure your day is memorable for all the right reasons.
Best Practices for Getting a Marriage License
Getting your marriage license doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to make the process as smooth as possible:
- Start Early: The 72-hour waiting period means last-minute applications are a no-go. Begin the process at least a week before your ceremony. A judge can waive the 72-hour waiting period in an emergency, but advance planning is a better alternative.
- Call Ahead: Call a few months before your date to make sure you can get an appointment with their clerk’s office. Each office is a little different, and not all can make an appointment at the last minute.
- Be Prepared: Gather all necessary documents before heading to the registrar’s office.
- Know the Fees: The fee in NJ is $28, payable to the issuing clerk. There is a small fee for certified copies, created by the clerk in the town where the ceremony occurs.
- Double-Check Your Info: Ensure all names, dates, and details are accurate on your license to avoid issues later.
Fun Facts About Getting Married in NJ
- Beach Weddings: If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, New Jersey’s beaches are perfect for a romantic ceremony. Just remember to check for permits during peak season!
- Pet-Friendly Options: Love your furry friends? Many officiants (including us) are happy to include your pets in the ceremony.
- Destination Weddings: Planning to celebrate abroad? Getting legally married in NJ before your destination wedding is a smart move to ensure your union is recognized back home.
Getting married in New Jersey is a joyful and unique experience. With the right preparation, a little paperwork, and a lot of heart, your big day will be unforgettable.
Here’s wishing you love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness from all of us at NJ Vows Now. Remember: love is all you need (but a marriage license definitely helps!). 💕