Legal Age
Persons who have not reached a certain age are prohibited from marrying. An under-age applicant will not be issued a license unless they obtain parental consent. Laws in all states except for Mississippi (21 years old) and Nebraska (19 years old) require that those wishing to marry be at least 18 years of age.
Does it matter how old I am if my parents consent to my marriage?
Yes. Laws generally prohibit the issuance of a marriage license if the person is under 14 years of age; it is irrelevant if a parent consents or not.
Can my 16-year-old daughter get married without my consent?
No. Your consent is necessary for a marriage license to be issued.
TIP: Often the written consent of both parents is required.
TIP: Parents giving consent must accompany their child when applying for a marriage license.
My 16 year old daughter has my permission to marry but I have no idea how to get in touch with her father. Is his written consent necessary?
Yes; however, an exception to this rule is sometimes allowed. While laws vary, generally one parent's consent is sufficient if:
- the consenting parent was given sole custody of the child at the time of a divorce;
- the other parent's whereabouts have been unknown for 1 year prior to applying for a marriage license; or
- the other parent is deceased or has been judged incompetent