How to get married: your questions answered

In most places you: (1) apply for a marriage license together at the local marriage office, often the county clerk in the US or the registry office in the UK; (2) hold a ceremony with an authorized officiant within the license's valid period; (3) sign the license with your officiant and any required witnesses; and (4) the signed license is returned to the office, which records the marriage and issues a marriage certificate.

Usually from the local government office that handles marriage records in the area where you'll marry, such as a county clerk or registry office. Many offices let you start the application online, but most still expect both partners to appear in person or by video.

Commonly a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport, and sometimes a birth certificate, proof of age or address, and your Social Security number in the US. If either of you was married before, you may need a divorce decree or death certificate. Bring the fee too; it varies by location.

Some places require a waiting period between getting the license and holding the ceremony, from a day to several days. In the UK, notice must normally be given at least 28 days in advance. Check your local office before setting your timeline.

Licenses expire, often between 30 days and a year depending on where you live. Apply close enough to your date that it is still valid on the day, but early enough to cover any waiting period.

Typically religious leaders, judges, certain public officials, and in many US states a friend who is ordained online or who registers as a one-day officiant. Rules differ by state and country, so confirm your officiant is recognized where the ceremony takes place.

Many places require one or two adult witnesses to sign the license; some require none. Check your license instructions.

Yes, many offices offer civil ceremonies by appointment for a small fee. It's a common choice for couples who want a simple legal wedding, sometimes followed by a larger celebration later.

The officiant, or sometimes the couple, returns the signed license by the deadline. Once it's recorded you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate. You'll need those to change your name with government agencies, banks and employers.

Put it on your checklist about two to three months out: check your local rules, then apply within the license's valid window, usually in the last month before the wedding.