| How To Get Married in MassachusettsNow that same-sex marriage is legal in the State of Massachusetts, gay couples (residents or non residents) can apply for a marriage license. Here are the steps you need to take before getting married in Massachusetts: Difficulty: Average Time Required: Varies Here's How:- You and your partner must both jointly apply for a marriage license with the clerk in any community within Massachusetts. You must get married within 60 days of obtaining a license. Keep in mind that the license is only valid within the State of Massachusetts.
- Pay the marriage application fee. Fees range from $4 to $15 depending the community in which you file.
- Get a medical certificate from any physician licensed to practice in Massachusetts. Out of state residents can request a blank certificate before arriving in Massachusetts . The state requires this certificate to show that you and your partner free of communicable syphilis. It also indicates that the physician has offered the woman a voluntary test for susceptibility of rubella and has discussed facts about AIDS.
- Bring your birth certificates. You and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
- After you file your application, wait the mandatory 3 days before picking up your license.
- If you or your partner have ever been divorced, you must show your divorce certificate. There are no requirements for widows or widowers.
- You do not need a witness at the ceremony, but make sure you observe you and your partners religious tenets.
- If you clergyperson is from outside of the State of Massachusetts, they must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth before the ceremony. You can get the certificate at the following address:
Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 727-2836
A non-minister or non-justice of the peace can perform the ceremony. Get information here.
- You can get more information by visiting the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
Tips:- I don't need to tell you that marriage is a serious commitment and a legal bond. Be sure that you and your partner are ready for this next step. Read What Gay Men Should Know Before Moving In Together!
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