Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

AeroJenn Posted: Jan 12, 2007 09:24 AM

Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

I know the license is what you actually sign on your wedding day. Whats the certificate and how do you get it? How long does it take to get one?

I have to get my military ID right after the wedding (like literally a few days after) and they need a copy of my marriage CERTIFICATE in order to do it. I dont know what this is, or how long it will take to get it...

hmpena Posted: Jan 12, 2007 09:31 AM

Re: Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

The marriage license I believe, allows you get married. That is what you sign on your wedding day. The certificate is the proof of marriage that comes from the state and is registered with the state.

AeroJenn Posted: Jan 12, 2007 09:41 AM

Re: Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

Posted by hmpena

The marriage license I believe, allows you get married. That is what you sign on your wedding day. The certificate is the proof of marriage that comes from the state and is registered with the state.

Ohh, Okay. How do I go about getting that?

ali120206 Posted: Jan 12, 2007 09:52 AM

Re: Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

You bring your marriage license to your officiant either the day of the wedding or at the rehearsal. They complete the form and mail it back to the party who issued it originally. It is then processed and the certificate is sent to you.

We got married on 12/2 and our marriage certificate was dated 12/12 and waiting for us when we got back from our honeymoon.

kissy27 Posted: Jan 12, 2007 09:54 AM

Re: Whats the difference between your marriage license and marriage certificate?

Your marriage certificate will come in the mail after you are married. We had ours within 1 week of the wedding. You need your marriage certificate to change your name legally. You can not get this until after you are married & it is issued by the state from your marriage license!