Ohio Elopement Laws in 2023: What You Need to Know

If you're considering eloping in Ohio in 2023, it's important to understand the state's elopement laws. Elopement can be a great way to celebrate your love in an intimate and personal way, but it's important to make sure that you're following all legal requirements to ensure that your marriage is valid.

Here's what you need to know about Ohio elopement laws in 2023:

Marriage License Requirements:

Before you can get married in Ohio, you'll need to obtain a marriage license. To do so, you and your partner will need to visit your local county probate court and provide the following documentation:

Identification: Both partners will need to provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card.

Social Security Number: Both partners will also need to provide their social security numbers.

Proof of Age: If you're under 18, you'll need to have written consent from your parents or legal guardians.

Fee: You'll need to pay a fee to obtain your marriage license. The cost varies by county but is typically between $50-$70.

Waiting Period:

Ohio has a waiting period of three days before you can use your marriage license to get married. This means that you'll need to wait three days after obtaining your license before you can legally tie the knot. However, the waiting period can be waived for an additional fee.

Officiant Requirements:

To make your marriage legal, you'll need to have an officiant perform the ceremony and sign your marriage license. In Ohio, anyone who is authorized by the state to perform marriages can act as an officiant, including religious leaders, judges, and mayors.

Witness Requirements:

Ohio law does not require witnesses to be present during the ceremony. However, your officiant will need to sign your marriage license as a witness.

Name Change:

If you plan to change your name after getting married, you'll need to update your name on your social security card, driver's license, and other legal documents. You can typically do this by providing a copy of your marriage license.

Eloping in Ohio in 2023 can be a wonderful way to celebrate your love in a simple and intimate way. However, it's important to make sure that you're following all legal requirements to ensure that your marriage is valid. By obtaining a marriage license, waiting the required amount of time, and having an authorized officiant perform your ceremony, you can ensure that your elopement is legal and recognized by the state of Ohio.

It's important to note that Ohio has additional requirements for couples who wish to marry if they have been previously married. If either partner has been married before, they'll need to provide a certified copy of their divorce decree or death certificate of their former spouse before they can obtain a marriage license.

Additionally, Ohio does not recognize common-law marriages. To be legally married in Ohio, you must obtain a marriage license and have a ceremony performed by an authorized officiant.