Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Marriage Licenses
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Marriage Licenses
You must both apply together, in person, for a marriage license. Both parties must have photo identification. This applies to both residents and non-residents of the Commonwealth. According to Massachusetts law, you must jointly file intentions to marry, and you may do so with the city or town clerk in any community in the state. If a person is in the military, intentions may be filed by either party, providing one is a Massachusetts resident. A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the time the intentions are filed and may be used in any city or town in the state. It is not valid outside of Massachusetts.
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There is a mandatory three-day waiting period.Marriage Licenses
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Yes, you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions.Marriage Licenses
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A marriage license costs $35.00 in Manchester-by-the-Sea.Marriage Licenses
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Massachusetts residents must be age 18 to marry. If either party is under 18, a court order from a probate or district court must be obtained before intentions can be filed.Marriage Licenses
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No. That requirement was repealed as of January, 2005.Marriage Licenses
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Marriage Licenses
You are not required to present a divorce certificate when filing intentions to marry. However, you should be aware of any waiting period post divorce before you are able to re-marry. It varies by state but in Massachusetts it is a 90 day waiting period.
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Massachusetts law does not require any witness to be present at the ceremony.Marriage Licenses
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Marriage Licenses
The clergyperson must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Secretary of State's office prior to the ceremony. For further information contact:
Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-727-2836 -
Marriage Licenses
You can contact the Town Clerk, Christine Dixon at (978)-526-2040 townclerk@manchester.ma.us