HAMILTON COUNTY PROBATE COURT

The following are the absolute minimum requirements for every applicant (see Checklist for Minors for the added requirements for minor applicants).

	Both Bride and Groom must be present at the time of application. Unless one or both of the applicants are incapacitated. Note: We do not issue licenses to incarcerated individuals under any circumstances.
	The fee for the license is $45.00. Cash or credit cards (Visa and MasterCard only) are accepted. Checks are not accepted.
	The bride and groom must each have a government issued photo ID (i.e., Driver's License, State ID, passport, VISA, etc.).
	The residency of the applicants is also an issue. Ohio residents wanting to marry in Ohio, apply in the county where they reside. Out of state residents getting married in Ohio, apply in the county in which they are getting married.
	If either applicant has been married before, then the Decree of Divorce (or Dissolution) must be presented. Note: the copy of the decree presented should have the proper stamps and signatures showing it was in fact entered in the court, and we do not accept copies of separation agreements or custody papers. If either applicant is a widow or widower we do not require a Death Certificate.
	The couple must get married within 60 days of our issuing the license. While there is no blood testing or waiting period, the license does expire 60 days after issuance.
	The couple must swear, or affirm, that all information and testimony provided is true, correct, and complete.
	The couple must sign their full name (including middle name) on the actual Marriage License.

Upon entering our office a couple will fill out an application, gathering information that will appear on the actual Marriage License. When finished, the couple will be called on by one of our clerks, who will then verify that the above requirements have been met. The clerk will then administer the oath, ring up the $45.00, and print the license for signing. Before signing the license, it is important that the couple confirm all information is spelled correctly and is completely accurate. Prior to leaving, the clerk will give the couple two forms for the wedding officiant (be it minister, mayor, or judge), a "souvenir" marriage license, and some general information forms. The forms for the officiant are the most important. These two forms are given to the officiant prior to performing the ceremony. One of the forms confirms that we have issued a license for the couple to wed, the other is for the officiant to fill out (confirming that he / she performed the ceremony) and mail back to us. The license is not complete until this form is returned to our office. The souvenir license is strictly decorative and does not have any legal significance. Once we have completed the license, we will make a certified copy and mail it to the couple. This certified copy is the legal proof of marriage needed to change the bride's name with Social Security and the Driver's License Bureau. Along with the certified copy we will mail a set of souvenir wallet cards. Like the souvenir license, these cards do not have any legal significance.