216 R.I. Code R. 216-RICR-10-10-1.29

Current through December 26, 2024

Section 216-RICR-10-10-1.29 - Issuance of Marriage License

A. Persons intending to be married in Rhode Island must first obtain a marriage license from:

1. If both persons live in Rhode Island, they may apply for a marriage license from the local registrar or his/her assistant, at the city or town hall where either person resides; or

2. If only one (1) person lives in Rhode Island, they must apply for a marriage license from the local registrar or his/her assistant, at the city or town hall where the Rhode Island resident lives, or

3. If neither person lives in Rhode Island, they must apply for a marriage license from the local registrar or his/her assistant from the city or town hall of the city or town where the marriage ceremony will be performed. Applicants for a marriage license must know the city or town in which the marriage will be solemnized should the property of the marriage site be situated across two (2) or more municipalities.

B. In a situation described in §§ 1.29(A)(1) or (2) of this Part, the marriage may be performed in any city or town in Rhode Island. In a situation described in § 1.29(A)(3) of this Part, the marriage shall be performed only in the city or town where the marriage license was issued.

C. Applicants for a marriage license shall provide all the information requested to complete the marriage license, and shall attest to the truth of the information by signing the license in the presence of the local registrar or his/her assistant. Furthermore, applicants must submit the following supporting documentation:

1. A valid government issued form of identification and a government issued certificate providing birth facts for each applicant, preferably a certified copy of a birth certificate;

2. Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-2-11, a minor's permit signed in the presence of the local registrar, or his/her assistant, by the parent(s) or guardian(s), if the person entering into the marriage is a minor of at least sixteen (16) years of age but less than eighteen (18) years of age;

3. Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-2-11, a written order from the Family Court to issue the license if either person is less than sixteen (16) years of age; and

4. A certified copy of a final divorce decree/dissolution, or of a death certificate, if the applicant has been previously married or party to a registered civil union or domestic partnership/relationship.

D. The license shall be valid for three (3) months after the date of issuance. If the marriage is not performed within the three (3) months, the license becomes invalid and the party or parties in possession of the license shall return it immediately to the local registrar from whom it was obtained.

216 R.I. Code R. 216-RICR-10-10-1.29

Amended effective 3/31/2021