New Jersey State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in New Jersey, also known as The Garden State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a valid social security card, along with a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, and a certified copy of their birth certificate or valid passport when applying for a marriage license.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a 72-hour waiting period.  Under special circumstances, the waiting period may be waived by a Supreme Court judge.  If either of the intended were previously married, a certified copy of the divorce decree or former spouse’s death certificate must be provided. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of New Jersey must have consent from both parents.  Anyone under the age of 16 must have judicial approval.  If the bride is pregnant or the couple has a child together, special provisions may apply. 

The state of New Jersey does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot here.  It’s important to note, however, that residents of New Jersey must apply for a marriage license in the county where the bride lives.  If the bride is not a resident of the state, an application must be submitted in the groom’s hometown.  If neither the bride nor the groom are residents, the couple must apply in the county where the wedding will be held.  Once granted, a marriage license is valid for 30 days.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average cost is $28.00, and it is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex couples can apply for a civil union and/or domestic partnership registration in the state of New Jersey.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by a minister, judge, magistrate, mayor or county clerk.  

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the violet, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make New Jersey a wonderful choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of a New Jersey marriage certificate, send $25.00 to: NJ Vital Statistics

Customer Service Unit, P.O. Box 370, Trenton, NJ 08625-0370.  Requests must include a copy of the requester’s driver’s license or other valid photo ID.  If these are not available, two alternate forms of identification, one of which must confirm an address and relationship to the individual(s) listed on the certificate, may be accepted.

Code of New Jersey

Title 37 provides information on New Jersey marriage laws.