Getting a Marriage License in New Mexico
Where to apply for a marriage license in New Mexico, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.
Short answer: A couple must get a license from a county clerk in New Mexico and, after a ceremony in New Mexico, file it for recording in the county that issued it. NMSA 1978, §§ 40-1-10, 40-1-11
| Getting a marriage license | A couple must get a license from a county clerk in New Mexico and, after a ceremony in New Mexico, file it for recording in the county that issued it. Both parties must appear in person at the clerk's office with identification that satisfies the clerk as to identity and eligibility; a district judge may, for good cause, allow a person who cannot appear to obtain a license. The clerk's fee for issuing and recording the license and certificate is $55. The sections reviewed do not set a waiting period or a license expiration date. Source: NMSA 1978, §§ 40-1-10, 40-1-11 |
|---|---|
| Minimum marriage age | A 16- or 17-year-old who is not emancipated may marry only with the written consent of each living parent shown on the birth certificate, or with district court authorization requested by a parent or guardian for good cause. A person under 16 may marry only if the children's or family court division of the district court authorizes it, on request of a parent or guardian, in settlement of a support and parentage case or where an applicant is pregnant. A certified copy of any court authorization must be filed with the county clerk. Source: NMSA 1978, § 40-1-6 |
Where to get help in New Mexico
More New Mexico divorce & family law
- Adopting a Child in New Mexico
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in New Mexico
- Establishing Paternity in New Mexico
- Changing Your Name in New Mexico
- Child Custody Laws in New Mexico
- How Child Support Is Calculated in New Mexico
- Alimony and Spousal Support in New Mexico
- How to File for Divorce in New Mexico
- Legal Separation and Annulment in New Mexico
- All New Mexico divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you get a marriage license in New Mexico?
A couple must get a license from a county clerk in New Mexico and, after a ceremony in New Mexico, file it for recording in the county that issued it. Both parties must appear in person at the clerk's office with identification that satisfies the clerk as to identity and eligibility; a district judge may, for good cause, allow a person who cannot appear to obtain a license. The clerk's fee for issuing and recording the license and certificate is $55.
What is the legal age to get married in New Mexico?
A 16- or 17-year-old who is not emancipated may marry only with the written consent of each living parent shown on the birth certificate, or with district court authorization requested by a parent or guardian for good cause. A person under 16 may marry only if the children's or family court division of the district court authorizes it, on request of a parent or guardian, in settlement of a support and parentage case or where an applicant is pregnant. A certified copy of any court authorization must be filed with the county clerk.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.