CITY CLERK'S OFFICE

Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Marriage Licenses

How do I obtain a marriage license?

How much does a marriage license cost?

What is the difference between a Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate?

How do I obtain a copy of a marriage certificate?

How much does a copy cost?

How do I get a marriage Certificate request form?

Q: How do I obtain a marriage license?
A: Persons wishing to obtain a license must be eighteen years old and file their intentions to marry with a City Clerk together in person (except for in cases where one person is in the military or incarcerated) at least three days before the ceremony. Blood tests are no longer necessary as of January 28, 2005.

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Q: How much does a marriage license cost?
A: In Haverhill, the cost of filing for a license is $25.00. The license is valid for 60 days, and may be used for a ceremony conducted in any Massachusetts city or town. The member of the clergy or Justice of the Peace who performs the ceremony must sign the license and return it to the city or town where the license was issued.

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Q: What is the difference between a Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate?
A: They are actually the same document. It is called a Marriage License before the couple is married and a Marriage Certificate after the wedding has been preformed.

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Q: How do I obtain a copy of a marriage certificate?
A: The Clerk's Office will have marriage records of any couple who filed their marriage intentions in Haverhill. Certified copies of birth, death and marriage records are available at the City Clerk's Office in Haverhill City Hall and the state Registry of Vital Records and Statistics. Copies of vital records may be obtained in person or by mail.

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Q: How much does a copy cost?
A: A certified copy of a marriage certificate is available for $10.00 at the City Clerks Office or $15.00 by mail.

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