Planning a wedding at Lemon Ridge Events or another beautiful venue in North Alabama or the Greater Birmingham area? Before you finalize the flowers, cake, and guest list, make sure you understand Alabama’s marriage requirements.
One important detail often surprises couples: Alabama no longer issues traditional marriage licenses. Instead, couples complete an official Alabama Marriage Certificate, have it signed and notarized, and submit it to a probate court for recording.
Here’s what you need to know before your Alabama wedding day.
What Do You Need to Get Married in Alabama?
For most adults, getting legally married in Alabama involves:
- Completing the official Alabama Marriage Certificate.
- Providing the required information for both spouses.
- Having both spouses sign with original signatures.
- Having the certificate properly notarized.
- Delivering the completed certificate to an Alabama probate court.
- Making sure it is received within the required 30-day period.
Electronic signatures are not accepted, and the notary must be authorized under Alabama law.
Do You Need a Marriage License in Alabama?
Technically, no. Since 2019, Alabama has not required couples to obtain a traditional marriage license. Instead, the Alabama Marriage Certificate is the document used to establish the marriage.
So, if you’re searching online for an Alabama marriage license, don’t be surprised when the official state information refers to a Marriage Certificate instead.
Where Do You File Your Marriage Certificate?
Your Alabama Marriage Certificate can be recorded with any Alabama county probate court. You don’t have to use the county where you live or where your wedding takes place.
That makes the process convenient for couples traveling to Alabama for their wedding or planning celebrations in areas such as Jasper, North Alabama, and the Greater Birmingham area.
Be sure to check with the probate court you plan to use for its current filing procedures and fees.
Don’t Forget the 30-Day Deadline
This is one of the most important requirements.
Your completed and notarized Marriage Certificate must be delivered to a probate court within 30 days of the later date on which the spouses signed the form. If it isn’t received within that period, the marriage is considered invalid and a new Marriage Certificate must be completed.
Because of this deadline, don’t wait until the last minute to take care of your paperwork.
Do You Have to Have a Wedding Ceremony?
No. Alabama does not require a wedding ceremony for a marriage to be legally valid.
Of course, while the state may not require a ceremony, celebrating your love with the people who matter most is one of the best parts of getting married! Check out this local article on Brides.com – https://www.brides.com/how-to-get-married-in-alabama-2300743.
Alabama Marriage Checklist
Before your wedding, make sure you:
- Complete the official Alabama Marriage Certificate.
- Provide the required information for both spouses.
- Sign with original signatures.
- Have the certificate notarized.
- Submit it to an Alabama probate court.
- Confirm it is received within 30 days.
- Verify current fees and procedures with the probate court.
For the most current forms and requirements, check the Alabama Department of Public Health before completing your paperwork.
Planning Your Alabama Wedding?
Once the legal details are handled, you can focus on the fun part – your wedding!
Whether you’re planning a celebration in Jasper, North Alabama, or the Greater Birmingham area, Lemon Ridge Events is proud to provide a beautiful setting for couples beginning their next chapter together.
From your ceremony to your reception, we’re here to help make your wedding day memorable, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
Congratulations, and happy wedding planning!
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Alabama requirements, forms, fees, and filing procedures may change. Always verify current requirements with the Alabama Department of Public Health or the appropriate probate court.