Minnesota has a mandatory waiting period of five working days. The $115 license fee will be reduced to $40 if a couple can show written proof of having received an authorized premarital course. The course must have a minimum of 12 hours instruction and include the use of a premarital inventory and the teaching of communication and conflict management skills. It must have been taught by a licensed or ordained minister or minister’s designee, a person authorized to solemnize marriages, or a person authorized to practice marriage and family therapy. The written verification must be signed by the established educator, dated, notarized and appear on the educator’s letterhead in order to be accepted.
Both the bride and groom are required to apply and sign for the marriage license, and both must have proper identifications and social security numbers. Proof of death, divorce, or annulment from the most recent marriage must be provided if applicable. No refunds will be issued.
Marriage licenses can now be applied and paid for completely online at Stearns County’s Virtual License Center. The marriage license application requires signatures, so both parties applying still need to appear in person at the License Center to sign. A “Fast Pass” email is issued and gives them top priority in the customer line, expediting their visit at the License Center.
Blood tests are not required in Minnesota. Cousins and same-sex couples cannot legally marry. You need not be a resident of Minnesota to apply for a marriage license, but a license purchased in Minnesota must be used in this state. The license is valid for six months. A copy of the marriage certificate will be kept on file in the county where you applied.
Apply for your Marriage license or get more information at www.co.stearns.mn.us or call 320-656-3925
Changing Your Name
If you are planning to change your name, you will probably not do so until after the wedding because most places require a certified marriage certificate. However, when applying for your marriage license, you could start gathering the forms and information required to change your name and/ or address for the following:
- Social Security
- IRS- Passport
- Utility Companies
- Insurance Companies
- U.S. Postal Service
- Driver’s License and Vehicle Title/ Registration
- Credit cards and any other financial accounts
St. Cloud Times
3000 N Seventh Street
St. Cloud, MN 56303
320-255-8753 Fax: 320-255-8773
FORMS: Stop by the St. Cloud Times, write or visit www.sctimes.com/celebrations for engagement and wedding announcements. Photos are also accepted by e-mail at Celebrations@stcloudtimes.com. Submit engagement forms 3 to 4 months prior to the wedding. Wedding announcements are accepted within 30 days from the date of the wedding. Allow 2-3 weeks for publication.
FEE: $50 - $120 depending on size.
PHOTOS: Will be returned if your name and address are printed on the back of the photograph. Wedding proofs are acceptable.