30 Jan Understanding the basics of Tennessee marriage law

Tennessee marriage law is comprised of a few criteria

Everything you need to get married in Tennessee

So you’ve met the love of your life and want to make it official. Here’s what you need to do the deed (other than a willing bride or groom), according to the Davidson and Rutherford County Clerks. Note: These tips apply to Tennessee marriage law only.

Proof of life

When applying for your marriage license, both parties to the marriage must be present together at the County Clerk’s office and prove they are over 18 years old. To do so, you must provide proof of your date of birth with a government-issued photo ID or birth certificate, as well as proof of your social security number (if you have one). If either potential spouse is under age, a parent or guardian must accompany the minor. If they are under 16 years old, a court order is needed.

Payment in full

A marriage license costs $99.50 in Davidson County and $107.50 in Rutherford County. But you can get a discount if you complete an approved premarital preparation course within a year of applying for the license. The course provider must fill out a Certificate of Completion and get it notarized. If you have a notarized Certificate of Completion form, the fee is reduced to $45.

A complete application

State law requires couples to complete an application in writing that includes names, ages and social security numbers along with the names and state of birth of both parents.

Someone to perform the ceremony

According to state law, the rite of matrimony may only be solemnized by:

• A regular minister, preacher, pastor, priest, rabbi, or other religious leaders of every religious belief, more than 18 years of age and from an actual place of worsip;

• Current or former members of county legislative bodies, county mayors, judges and chancellors, or speakers of the senate and speakers of the house of representatives

• The current governor, county clerk of each county, or city mayors.

These guidelines, enacted in 1998, mean a person who was ordained by an online church is not authorized to perform marriages in the State of Tennessee. A marriage license is valid for 30 days after it is issued. So plan ahead, you don’t want to rush the biggest day of your life.