Why Do Some States Require a Waiting Period for Marriage?
At Get Married Today, we specialize in eliminating unnecessary delays for couples who are ready to tie the knot. However, many couples are surprised to learn that in some U.S. states, getting married isn’t always instant. Some states enforce a mandatory waiting period between the time a marriage license is issued and when a couple can legally wed. But why? What purpose does this waiting period serve, and how can couples bypass it if they’re in a hurry?
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about state-mandated marriage waiting periods, including their history, their intended benefits, which states have them, and how Get Married Today offers legal, fast alternatives that allow you to get married without delay.
Understanding the Waiting Period: What Is It?
A waiting period is a legally enforced time interval between when a couple obtains their marriage license and when they can officially marry. These periods can range from zero days to up to six days, depending on the state.
In general, waiting periods are intended to serve as a “cooling-off” phase to ensure both parties are entering the marriage willingly, rationally, and not under undue pressure or impulse.
Historical Context: Origins of the Waiting Period
Waiting periods for marriage have roots in early 20th-century social policy. The intent was to prevent hasty or impulsive marriages, reduce annulments and divorces, and give couples time to reflect on the seriousness of the commitment.
Back when travel and communication were slower, some individuals used marriage fraudulently—either to secure immigration status, gain financial control, or even evade legal troubles. State legislatures introduced waiting periods to slow this process and introduce safeguards.
Why Do Some States Still Require It?
Even though many states have repealed mandatory waiting periods, several continue to enforce them. Here are some of the most cited reasons:
- Preventing Impulsive Decisions: Marriage is a legal contract with lifelong implications. Some lawmakers argue that a waiting period encourages couples to reflect on their decision.
- Administrative Review: Certain states use the waiting period to verify information, perform background checks, or ensure that the applicants are not already married.
- Public Policy Tradition: In some jurisdictions, waiting periods remain a legacy law that hasn’t been updated to reflect modern views or efficiencies.
- Encouraging Premarital Counseling: Some states use the waiting period to promote counseling, particularly among young couples or those marrying for the first time.
- Reducing Marriage Fraud: Waiting periods can help expose fraudulent intentions, particularly in cases where someone is trying to marry for immigration or financial benefit.
States That Require a Marriage Waiting Period
Here are a few states that enforce waiting periods, as of the most recent updates:
- Wisconsin: 6-day waiting period
- Minnesota: 5-day waiting period
- Texas: 72 hours (3 days)
- Maryland: 48 hours
- Iowa: 3 days
- Illinois: 1 day
- Delaware: 24 hours (or 96 hours for non-residents)
These laws are subject to change, and in some states, judges can waive the waiting period for good cause.
How to Waive a Marriage Waiting Period
In some states, it is possible to waive the waiting period. Couples may be able to request a waiver for:
- Emergency Situations: Military deployment, medical necessity, or imminent relocation.
- Judicial Discretion: A judge may approve a waiver for just cause.
- Additional Fees: Some counties allow couples to pay a fee to expedite the process.
However, these waiver processes can still take time and are not guaranteed.
California: No Waiting Period and Why It Matters
California, where Get Married Today operates, has no waiting period. That means once you get your marriage license, you can legally marry right away—even the same day. This is a game-changer for couples in urgent situations such as:
- Immigration deadlines
- Military leave schedules
- Insurance or healthcare needs
- Last-minute elopements
- Personal emergencies
With no need to wait, couples can save time, reduce stress, and avoid navigating court bureaucracy.
How Get Married Today Helps You Bypass the Waiting Period
At Get Married Today, we are fully authorized to issue marriage licenses and perform legally binding ceremonies in one seamless appointment. Our services include:
- Same-day marriage license issuance
- On-the-spot legal ceremony with ordained officiants
- Mobile services to your home, hospital, beach, or venue
- Weekend and holiday availability
- Apostille services for international use
We understand that life happens fast. That’s why our team is available 24/7 to help you legally marry without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the waiting period required in every state?
No. Many states, like California, have no waiting period at all. Others, like Texas or Wisconsin, require a waiting period unless waived by a judge.
2. Can I travel to a no-wait state to get married faster?
Yes. Couples often travel to states like California specifically to bypass waiting periods. With Get Married Today, out-of-state and international couples are welcome.
3. Is the waiting period related to residency?
Not usually. Most waiting period laws apply regardless of whether you are a state resident or not.
4. What if my partner is in the military or hospitalized?
Get Married Today offers flexible, legal marriage options for couples facing urgent life situations. We come to you, even in hospitals or before deployment.
5. Can I get my marriage certificate on the same day too?
While the marriage license and ceremony can happen the same day, the official marriage certificate is issued by the county registrar and typically mailed within a few weeks. We can assist with certified copies and apostille certification if needed.
Benefits of Skipping the Waiting Period
- Speed: Handle everything in one visit.
- Privacy: Avoid courthouse visits.
- Flexibility: Choose your location.
- Legal Compliance: Stay within your immigration or insurance deadlines.
- Emotional Relief: Reduce anxiety associated with time-sensitive situations.
Real-Life Scenarios Where Time Matters
- Case Study: Immigration Urgency
A couple facing a visa expiration had only two days to finalize their marriage. Thanks to California’s no-wait policy and Get Married Today’s services, they were legally married the same day. - Case Study: Medical Emergency
One partner was admitted to the hospital with a critical diagnosis. Their marriage gave the spouse immediate legal authority for medical decisions. - Case Study: Military Leave
A military member stationed at Camp Pendleton had a 72-hour leave. They got married at our Orange County chapel within hours of landing.
Your Next Steps: Don’t Wait to Get Married
If you’re ready to take the next step in your relationship, don’t let a state-mandated waiting period slow you down. Our experienced team will walk you through every step—from license issuance to the wedding ceremony and document filing.
At Get Married Today, you can:
- Book your appointment online
- Meet us at your location or our chapel
- Get legally married on the same day
- Add apostille service for international recognition
Conclusion: Love Shouldn’t Have to Wait
Marriage waiting periods are often rooted in outdated laws that don’t reflect the needs of modern couples. Whether you’re facing an urgent situation or simply want to avoid bureaucratic delay, Get Married Today offers a fully legal and immediate solution.
Contact us now to book your same-day marriage appointment. We’re here 24/7 to help love win—fast, easy, and official.