If you’re planning to elope in Arkansas, understanding the legal requirements is crucial to ensure your marriage is officially recognized. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Arkansas offers a relatively straightforward process for getting married. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about legally becoming married in Arkansas, who can marry you, and how officiants can be ordained.
Understanding the Legal Requirements for Eloping in Arkansas
Before walking down the aisle (or trail), there are several legal steps you need to follow:
Obtain a Marriage License
The first step in getting married and eloping in Arkansas is to obtain a marriage license. You can get this from any county clerk’s office within the state. There are no residency requirements, so even if you’re from out of state, you can still get married in Arkansas.
- Identification: Both parties must provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. You may also need to provide your Social Security number.
- Age Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If you’re under 18 but at least 17, you can marry with parental consent and a judge’s approval, under certain conditions.
- Fees: The cost of a marriage license varies by county, typically ranging from $55 to $60. Payment methods can vary, so check with the county clerk’s office.
- Waiting Period: Arkansas has no waiting period, so you can marry immediately after obtaining your license.
License Validity and Return
Your marriage license is valid for 60 days. The marriage must occur within this time frame, or you’ll need to get a new license. After the ceremony, the officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the county clerk’s office where it was issued to officially record the marriage.
Who Can Legally Marry You in Arkansas?
Now that you have your marriage license, you need someone to perform the ceremony. In Arkansas, several types of officials are legally authorized to officiate weddings:
1. Religious Officials
Ordained or licensed ministers of a recognized religious organization are authorized to perform marriages in Arkansas. This includes priests, rabbis, and other religious leaders.
2. Judges and Justices of the Peace
Judges, including those from county and municipal courts, and justices of the peace, are also empowered to perform marriage ceremonies. Some government officials, such as mayors, may be authorized depending on local regulations.
3. Online-Ordained Ministers
Arkansas recognizes ministers who have been ordained online through organizations like the Universal Life Church (ULC). This makes it easy for a friend or family member to officiate your wedding. Also, if you just want it to be you two and two others, we can do that too because I am ordained as well.
How to Become an Ordained Officiant in Arkansas
If you or someone you know wants to officiate a wedding in Arkansas, the process is straightforward:
Ordination Through a Religious Organization
To officiate a wedding, you must be ordained by a recognized religious institution. This can be done through traditional denominations or online ministries like the ULC, which offer ordination services. Hey, that’s me! Did you know I am ordained and can sign your marriage license?
Online Ordination
Online ordination is a popular option for those who wish to officiate a wedding without formal religious training. Many online ministries offer ordination quickly and often at no cost. Once ordained, you can legally perform weddings in Arkansas.
No Registration Requirement
Unlike some states, Arkansas does not require ordained ministers or religious officials to register with the state or county before officiating a wedding. However, it’s always a good idea to have documentation of your ordination in case it’s requested. This just gives them the confidence that you know the process on how to get married in Arkansas.
Conducting the Ceremony and Completing the License
As an officiant, your responsibilities extend beyond just conducting the ceremony:
Performing the Ceremony
You’ll need to conduct the ceremony according to the wishes of the couple and any relevant religious or personal traditions.
Completing the Marriage License: How to Get Married in Arkansas
After the ceremony, the officiant, along with the couple and two witnesses, must sign the marriage license. It’s crucial that all information is accurate and complete. The officiant is then responsible for returning the completed license to the county clerk’s office.
Eloping in Arkansas Made Easy
Eloping in Arkansas is a process filled with both excitement and legal steps. By understanding the requirements for obtaining a marriage license, knowing who can legally marry you, and how they can become ordained, you can ensure your big day goes smoothly and your marriage is recognized by the state. Whether you’re planning a grand ceremony or an intimate elopement, Arkansas offers a range of options to make your wedding day legally binding and unforgettable. If you’re wondering where to get married in Arkansas, check out this blog!
