Marriage License Application Process – City of Berlin NH
Where do I apply for a Marriage License?
Licenses may be applied for at any New Hampshire town or city clerk’s office. As it does take approximately ½ hour to process the license we ask that you come in no later than 11:00 AM prior to lunch and no later than 4:00 PM.
What type of identification do we need to apply in Berlin, NH?
Proof of identity and age, such as a driver’s license, non-drivers ID or passport.
How far in advance do we need to apply?
The license is only good for 90 days from the date of application.
What if one of us has been married or in a civil union before?
Each party is required to bring the certified document that ended his or her last marriage or civil union, such as a divorce decree, annulment paper, dissolution or death certificate.
Is there a waiting period?
No. The State of New Hampshire has no waiting period.
If one of the parties is in the military and is unable to return to New Hampshire before the ceremony, what can we do?
Contact the City Clerk’s Office for instructions.
Do we have to use the license in the same town or city where we applied?
No. If you are getting married in New Hampshire you can apply at any New Hampshire town or city clerk.
Can we use the license in another state or country?
No. If the marriage is to take place outside New Hampshire, you must contact the location where the marriage will occur for licensing regulations.
If the marriage takes place in another state or country, will it be valid in New Hampshire?
If any New Hampshire resident contracts a marriage in another jurisdiction that they were legally unable to contract in NH, (for example: due to age, relation, etc.) the marriage would not be recognized by the State of New Hampshire. See RSA 457:43
Do both parties have to be present to complete the application?
Yes. The application must be completed in person and signed by both parties.
What is the fee?
License fee is $50.00 payable in cash only.
Is a blood test required?
No. The State of New Hampshire does not require a blood test.
How do I change my name after marriage? Is it taken care of for me when I complete the license application?
Name changes are done by the couple and usually require presenting a certified copy of the marriage certificate, which is available from any New Hampshire town or city clerk after the officiant (the person performing the marriage) has returned the completed license to the clerk where you applied for marriage license. The certificate is presented to any agency where the name change would be recorded; Social Security, DMV, insurance, creditor, etc.
I don’t want to change my name, what do I do?
Nothing. A name change only takes place at your request.
How do we get a certified copy of our license?
Certificates are available for $15.00 for the first copy and $10.00 each for any additional copies issued at the same time. They may be obtained at any New Hampshire town or city clerk office once the officiant has filed the completed license.
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