How to Get a Marriage License - Wedding Articles | BridalBook

A marriage license is your ultimate requirement before you can walk down the aisle and say "I do." Tying the knot also comes with social responsibilities, and fulfilling this requirement is one of them, as stated under the Executive Order 209 or the Family Code. Moreover, most wedding churches will require you to present the marriage license before confirming your slot. Securing your wedding license can be overwhelming, but we've rounded up the basic steps.

Where to go:

To apply for a marriage license, you and your partner should get an application form from the local registry office. Each of your applications should be sworn separately before the civil registrar. (A tip: When dealing with local government offices, go early in the morning or right after lunch to avoid long queues.)

What to bring:

Relieve yourself from extra stress by making sure that all the requirements for a marriage license are complete when you head to the registrar. When you have sworn on your applications, you will also need to submit the following:

• Birth certificate issued by the NSO, Certified true copy
• Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) form issued by the NSO
• Certificate of attendance to premarital and family planning seminars held by your municipality
• A valid ID to confirm your identity
• Affidavit of parental consent (if the bride and/or groom is 18-21 years old)
• Affidavit of parental advice (if the bride and/or groom is 22-25 years old)

What to expect upon filing application:

When you have submitted all requirements, you will have to wait for 10 days before your marriage license is released. Once it is issued, this marriage license will only be valid for 120 days or four months. 

How to address a special case:

If you have a special case or provision, like if you had a previous marriage or if you're marrying a foreign national, it is best to visit the local registry office to confirm additional requirements.