Getting Married in Alabama: The Basics

Embarking on the journey of marriage in Alabama involves a few key steps to ensure everything is legally recognized. Whether you’re a resident or from out of state, understanding the process of obtaining a marriage certificate and, if desired, changing your name is essential. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate through this important milestone.

Step 1: Apply for a Marriage Certificate

In Alabama, the process for obtaining a marriage certificate is straightforward but slightly different from that in many other states. Alabama no longer issues marriage licenses.

Marriage Certificate Requirements:

1. Complete a Marriage Certificate Form: Unlike the traditional marriage license, Alabama requires couples to complete a marriage certificate form. This form can be found on the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) website or at any county probate court office.
2. Notarization: Both parties must sign the completed form in the presence of a notary public.
3. Submission: Once notarized, the form must be submitted to the probate court in any Alabama county within 30 days of the notarization. There is a fee associated with this submission, which varies by county.

Important Considerations:

• No Waiting Period: There is no waiting period after submitting the marriage certificate form.
• No Expiration: Once the marriage certificate is recorded, it doesn’t expire.
• No Officiant Needed: Alabama’s process does not require an officiant or a ceremony to be legally married. The notarized form itself suffices.

Step 2: Obtain Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

After submission, you may want certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.

How to Get Certified Copies:

1. Request from Probate Court: You can request certified copies from the probate court where you submitted your form.
2. Online or Mail: Some counties allow requests to be submitted online or by mail, often with an additional fee for convenience.

Step 3: Change Your Name (If Desired)

If you or your spouse decides to change your last name, there are several steps to follow after obtaining your marriage certificate.

Probate Court

1. Complete a Name Change Form: This form is available on the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) website or at any county probate court office.
2. Notarization: The person seeking a name change must sign the form before a notary public.
3. Submission: Once notarized, the form must be submitted to the probate court in your county. There is a fee associated with this submission, which varies by county.

Social Security Administration (SSA):

1. Fill out Form SS-5: the application for a Social Security card.
2. Submit Documents: Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your current Social Security card, and a valid ID (such as a driver’s license or passport).
3. Visit SSA Office: Submit your documents in person at your local SSA office or by mail.

Alabama Driver’s License:

1. Visit the DMV: After updating your name with the SSA, visit your local DMV.
2. Bring Documents: Provide your updated Social Security card, certified marriage certificate, and current driver’s license.
3. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for updating your driver’s license.

Update Other Records:

1. Bank Accounts and Credit Cards: Contact your bank and credit card companies to update your name.
2. Employer and Payroll: Inform your employer of payroll and benefits updates.
3. Other Institutions: Notify other relevant institutions, such as insurance companies, voter registration, and utilities.

Conclusion

While obtaining a marriage certificate and changing your name in Alabama are fairly straightforward, they involve a series of specific steps and documentation. By understanding these requirements and preparing in advance, you can ensure a smooth transition into your married life. Embrace this exciting time with confidence, knowing you have all the information you need to handle the legalities efficiently.

Alabama Fingerprint Solutions provides the notarization services you need for this process at our locations in Madison, Huntsville, and Hoover. To be sure a notary is available, call before you come to one of those offices. A marriage certificate requires two notarizations. The name change form requires a single notarization.

Reference: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/vitalrecords/marriage-certificates.html