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Available to any couple who meets Rhode Island's requirements. Valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Both parties must appear in person to apply.
To apply for a marriage license in Rhode Island, visit the city or town clerk's office in any Rhode Island municipality. Both parties must be present with valid photo IDs and required documents. No residency requirement exists.
To apply for a Rhode Island marriage license while outside the state, visit the city or town clerk's office in the location where the marriage ceremony will take place. Both parties must appear in person to apply. No residency requirement exists for the state, but non-residents must apply in the city or town of the marriage ceremony.
If you're outside the U.S., you cannot apply for a Rhode Island marriage license remotely. You must apply in person at a city or town clerk's office in Rhode Island upon arrival in the state.
Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.
Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.
Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.
Most offices issue licenses immediately, though some may take a few days. Confirm whether you’ll need to pick it up or if a digital copy is available.
If your license expires before your wedding, you’ll need to reapply—and repay the fees again. Stay on top of the deadline to avoid extra hassle.
Both parties must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. These documents should clearly show your full name, date of birth, and photograph.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry in Rhode Island. If either party is under 18, parental consent and court approval are required. Birth certificates or other official documents showing date of birth may be necessary.
Both individuals must provide their Social Security numbers on the marriage license application. If you don't have a Social Security number, you'll need to sign an affidavit stating this fact.
If either party has been previously married, you must provide proof of how the previous marriage ended. This can be a certified copy of a divorce decree or a death certificate of the former spouse.
Rhode Island does not require blood tests for marriage licenses, so you don't need to provide any medical documentation.
There are no residency requirements for getting married in Rhode Island. However, you may need to provide your current address on the application.
Be prepared to pay the marriage license fee, which can vary by municipality. Most offices accept cash, check, or money order, but it's best to confirm accepted payment methods beforehand.
If either party doesn't speak English fluently, you may need to bring an interpreter to assist with the application process and to translate the oath.
Certain cases need more paperwork
Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.
Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.
Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.
Detailed step by step application process
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