How do I obtain a marriage license in Arizona?

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1. Visit the County Clerk's Office: Both you and your partner must appear together in person at any county clerk's office in Arizona. You are not required to apply for the license in the county where you live or where the wedding will take place; it can be obtained from any county in Arizona.
2. Required Identification: You will need to bring proper identification, which usually includes a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Some counties may require a certified copy of your birth certificate. Check with the specific county clerk's office for their identification requirements.
3. Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can still get married in Arizona, but you will need written consent from at least one parent or legal guardian. If you are under 16, you will need written consent from a parent or legal guardian and approval from a Superior Court Judge.
4. Marriage License Fee: There is a fee for obtaining a marriage license in Arizona, and it varies by county. Fees can typically be paid with cash or credit card, but it's a good idea to check with the specific county clerk's office for their accepted payment methods.
5. Application Form: You will need to fill out a marriage license application form. You can often find this form on the county clerk's website, or you can fill it out at the clerk's office.
6. Waiting Period: Arizona has no waiting period, so you can obtain your marriage license and get married on the same day if you wish.
7. Expiration of License: Your marriage license is valid immediately upon issuance and remains valid for 12 months. Be sure to plan your wedding within that timeframe.
8. Ceremony: After you've obtained your marriage license, you can have your wedding ceremony performed by a licensed officiant, such as a minister, judge, or justice of the peace. Your officiant will sign the marriage license, and you and your partner, along with your witnesses, will need to sign it as well.
9. Return the License: Your officiant is responsible for returning the signed marriage license to the county clerk's office that issued it. Once it's recorded, you can request a certified copy for your records.

Remember that the requirements and procedures may vary slightly from county to county, so it's a good idea to check with the specific county clerk's office where you plan to obtain your marriage license for the most up-to-date information.