MARRIAGE LICENSE COSTS

General Information Regarding the Cost of Obtaining a Marriage License in New York State

There are many thing that a bride-to-be and groom-to-be need to do prior to their wedding. Although every step in the process has its own level of importance, perhaps one of the most important steps in the wedding preparation process is to obtain a marriage license. This is crucial, as a couple cannot be wed if they do not obtain one of these beforehand. A factor regarding a marriage license which should be discussed is the cost of obtaining such a document.

Marriage Licenses are relatively Inexpensive

A couple who is about to walk down the aisle will undoubtedly have a large number of costs associated with the wedding itself. One good thing about the marriage license relates to the cost. Marriage licenses, whether issued in New York City or elsewhere throughout New York State, are relatively inexpensive.

If a couple is getting a marriage license issued in New York City, the cost for obtaining such a document is $30. For those individuals who choose to obtain their marriage license outside of New York City they will pay a little bit less as their document will only cost them $25. The fee in either area includes the Certificate of Marriage which is the official document that is signed by the officiating individual of the marriage ceremony.

Why Is There a Fee?

Many individuals may be curious as to why there is a fee associated with a marriage license issuance. They may feel that since they are required to obtain a marriage license prior to exchanging their vows it should not cost anything to do so. The answer to this question is very simple. The fee is charged for administrative costs and the cost of preparing and issuing not only the marriage license itself but the future Certificate of Marriage as well.

Some people may hope that a fee like this will not always be necessary. However, when viewing the small price one has to pay for a document(s) of this type and what they are getting in return, it is easy to justify the price for a marriage license.