How to obtain a marriage license in South Dakota
Congratulations on your engagement! Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but don’t worry, you’re not alone. If you’re getting married in South Dakota, there are specific steps you need to take to obtain a marriage license and plan your wedding. It can be overwhelming to navigate through the legal requirements, venue options, and vendors while keeping everything within your budget.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the ten essential steps to get a South Dakota marriage license and plan a memorable SD wedding. Whether you’re a South Dakota resident or planning a destination wedding, these tips will help you ensure that your special day is legal, stress-free, and unforgettable.
Step 1: Find out the age requirement to get a marriage license
The age requirement to get a marriage license in South Dakota is 18 years old or older. If applicants are 16 or 17 years old, they must have their parent or guardian’s written and notarized consent.
Step 2: Get an application form
An application form for obtaining a marriage license in South Dakota is a document that needs to be filled out and signed by both parties in order to get a marriage license.
Step 3: Provide proof of age
In order to obtain a marriage license in South Dakota, both parties must be present to sign the application and provide proof of age. Acceptable forms of identification include a valid passport, current federal, state, military, or tribal photo identification, a certified birth certificate along with current school or employment photo ID, or a certified birth certificate along with a U.S. Department of Treasury Form 4029 that is completed. Additionally, each person must provide their Social Security Number.
For those aged 16 and 17, a parent or guardian’s written notarized consent is also required. The parent or guardian must fill out and sign a Parental Consent Form in the presence of a notary public, which must be brought to the Register of Deeds when applying for the license.
Step 6: Understand the fee required to get married and submit the payment
The fee required to get married in South Dakota is $40. Payments can be made with cash, a check, a money order, a debit card, or a credit card with a $2.50 fee. Depending on the office that you visit some of them may only accept cash or traveler’s checks.
Important Notes
- The marriage license must be purchased before the ceremony is performed.
- No personal checks are accepted for marriage licenses.
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Marriage License |
$40 |
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Certified Copy of Marriage Certificate |
$15 |
Step 4: Wait to hear back from the clerk
According to the South Dakota Department of Health Office of Vital Records, it typically takes two to three weeks to receive an updated response from the clerk after applying for a marriage license in South Dakota. To retrieve a copy of your marriage license, you can opt to do it in person, online, over the phone (the phone number is 605-773-4961), or via mail.
Step 5: Learn about time limits and requirements for solemnizing a wedding
In order to solemnize a wedding in South Dakota, couples must obtain a marriage license at any county courthouse in the state. The license must be issued at least 24 hours before the ceremony and the marriage must be solemnized 90 days from the date of issuance.
After the ceremony, the minister must return the original license and certificate to the register of deeds within 10 days or the marriage is not valid. The ceremony must be officiated by a justice of the Supreme Court, judge of the Circuit Court, magistrate judge, mayor, or a person authorized by a church.
Finally, two witnesses must be present for the wedding and the couple’s consent is mandatory.
Step 7: Review the instructions provided by the clerk
For additional information on South Dakota marriage requirements, see SDCL Chapter 25-1 or visit https://doh.sd.gov/records/marriage-requirements.aspx.
Review the information listed on your marriage license to ensure accuracy once you receive it from the Register of Deeds.
Step 8: Take steps to ensure that your license is valid when needed
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ensuring Marriage License Validity in South Dakota
- Both parties must be present to purchase the marriage license from the Register of Deeds office.
- Each party must provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID or passport.
- The fee for the license is $40.00 and can be paid with cash or a credit card.
- The license is valid for 90 days from the date of purchase and must be solemnized within this time frame.
- If the bride or groom is 16 or 17 years old, they must have their parent’s or guardian’s written, notarized consent form.
- The Social Security Number of each party will be required.
- Bring the license to the ceremony. The completed license will be signed by two adult witnesses and must be returned to the courthouse via mail or in person within 10 days of the ceremony.
Step 9: Understand the rights and responsibilities associated with marriage
Being married in South Dakota comes with a variety of rights and responsibilities. Both parties must be at least eighteen years old in order to marry, and if either person is a minor, between the ages of sixteen and eighteen, they must have written consent from a parent or guardian in order to obtain a marriage license.
Rights and responsibilities of being married in South Dakota include the right to make decisions regarding the other party’s financial matters, the responsibility for each other’s debts, the right to health insurance and other benefits, the right to inherit from the other if no will is in place, the responsibility to support the other financially, the right to seek a divorce if necessary, the right to seek alimony and child support, and the right to filing joint tax returns.
Step 10: Plan your wedding
Now that you know all of the steps required in order to get your marriage license in South Dakota, you are ready to plan your big day!
What to consider when planning your wedding in South Dakota
Choose the venue
When it comes to planning a wedding in South Dakota, the options are truly limitless. Couples can choose from a rustic barn vibe surrounded by prairie fields and rolling farmland, a lakeside venue overlooking the water, a museum, farm or brewery in Sioux Falls or Rapid City, or even a monumental wedding on the grounds of Mount Rushmore or the Crazy Horse Memorial.
South Dakota also offers other unique wedding venues, such as in the middle of a lake or deep underground in a cave. Plus, the state’s varied landscapes, including peaks like The Black Hills and Badlands National Park and seemingly endless miles of shoreline, will provide couples with an unforgettable backdrop for their special day.
The Meadow Barn
The Meadow Barn is a rustic barn with a contemporary finish, just south of Sioux Falls.
At The Meadow Barn, you’ll get the most bang for your buck.
Since the space at The Meadow Barn is already adorned with gorgeous details, the venue’s natural, included beauty along with luxury inclusions, stretch your wedding budget further than many other venues in Sioux Falls, SD.
Couples love our upfront packages and pricing information at The Meadow Barn, with package options designed to fit your budget.
View The Meadow Barn’s transparent packages and pricing here.
“Breathtaking location for weddings and events! Brand new and tastefully done to resemble the old but yet modern!” – Mariya Snizhko
Onsite Outdoor Ceremony
In case you’re looking for a picturesque location for your wedding, a ceremony onsite at The Meadow Barn will provide you with beautiful scenery that features blissful apple trees surrounding our elegant barn as the backdrop to your biggest moment.
“The Meadow Barn is a beautifully crafted, large-scale wedding venue in Sioux Falls!” – Laci Fruit
“This is an amazing venue! I was here for a wedding reception and it fits the current rustic chic trend perfectly.” – Max Federle
What’s next?
Check our availability and make your wedding reservations soon, our schedule fills quickly!
Check your wedding date availability here.
Schedule a tour to see The Meadow Barn for yourself!
Click here to schedule a tour.
The Veranda
The Veranda, located in South Dakota, is a striking farmhouse-style wedding venue that features a fireside bar, spacious patio, and ceremony area among their gorgeous apple orchard.
“We were so impressed with their service and beautiful grounds! The layout of the Veranda offers protection from wind and keeps cool in the summer sun despite feeling “open to air.” It was perfect for our day!” -Michaela Steinborn
Unique and versatile, rustic yet chic, this intimate wedding space will provide a truly memorable experience for you and all your loved ones.
Inside, our rustic timber frame structure is accented with white to seamlessly blend with our environment while creating a warm feeling for your guests.
Accentuating the hardwood beams on the walls, we have decorated the space with permanent string lights and large white drapes to give a whimsical feel to the room.
“The Veranda is so beautifully designed, and I would highly recommend it for any brides & grooms out there looking for a clean, classic, and beautiful outdoor venue. You won’t regret it!” – Katie Lamoreux
During the day, The Veranda is bathed in light through the giant barn door and the pavilion, which opens up to our dedicated ceremony space.
At night, your dreams come true under a sparkling shower of all your closest friends and family. United with your true love to live, from that moment forward, happily ever after!
What’s next?
Check out the top 10 most beautiful photography spots at The Veranda.
Like what you see?
You’ll love The Veranda’s simple and transparent pricing.
Make your wedding reservations soon. Our schedule fills quickly!
Check your wedding date availability here.
Schedule a tour to see The Veranda for yourself!
Click here to schedule a tour.
Create a budget
There are several factors to consider when creating a wedding budget. First, consider the number of guests you’ll be inviting, as this will have a significant impact on your catering and venue costs. You’ll also want to think about the type of venue you want and the season in which you plan to get married, as these factors can also affect your budget. Other key expenses to consider include wedding attire, photography, entertainment, flowers, transportation, and any additional decorations or favors.
Decide on the wedding day details
To ensure a smooth and memorable wedding day, consider important details such as timing, attire, transportation, ceremony and reception arrangements, and entertainment for your guests. Take time to appreciate the little things, like the flowers, music, and readings during the ceremony.
Investigate the available vendors
Planning a wedding in South Dakota can be a fun and exciting experience. To make sure that your special day is perfect, it is important to research the available vendors and make sure that they are the right fit for you and your future spouse. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Ask for recommendations: Start by asking friends and family who have recently been married for recommendations. They may be able to suggest vendors they worked with and can give you valuable insights into their experiences.
- Check online reviews: Websites like WeddingWire, The Knot, and Yelp offer reviews and ratings for wedding vendors. Read reviews carefully and look for vendors with consistent positive feedback.
- Attend bridal shows: Bridal shows offer a great opportunity to meet vendors in person, ask questions, and see their work. Be sure to take notes and gather business cards to follow up after the show.
- Look at vendor websites: Most wedding vendors have a website that showcases their work and services. Browse their portfolio and read their reviews to get a sense of their style and expertise.
- Schedule consultations: Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential vendors, schedule consultations to discuss your vision, budget, and any special requirements. Use this opportunity to ask questions and get to know the vendor before making a decision.
- Ask your venue for recommendations: Your wedding venue may have a list of preferred vendors or recommendations based on their past experiences.
By taking the time to research and choose the right wedding vendors, you can ensure that your wedding day is a success and that your memories are captured beautifully.
Schedule the wedding ceremony
When scheduling your wedding ceremony, consider factors such as the season, time of day, length of the ceremony, and availability of your chosen venue and vendors. It’s important to plan accordingly based on your preferences and traditions and to book your ceremony as early as possible to ensure availability on your chosen date and time. With careful planning, you can create a beautiful and meaningful wedding ceremony that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
Plan the reception
To plan a successful wedding reception, choose a budget-friendly venue that matches your style preferences. Consider decorations, seating, and catering that complement your theme and color scheme. Choose the right food, drinks, and dessert, while planning seating arrangements based on your guest list. Add entertainment or activities to keep your guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening.
We Wish You The Best of Luck!
If you are searching for a stunning yet affordable wedding venue that embodies rustic chic, look no further than The Meadow Barn and The Veranda. These venues offer the best of both worlds and have everything you could want in a barn wedding venue. You can schedule an in-person tour of the venue prior to booking, and with an on-site wedding coordinator available to assist you with all the particulars, you can rest easy knowing that your big day will be everything you’ve always dreamed of. Find out more when you schedule a tour.
Get More Information About The Meadow Barn and The Veranda.
Learn More About The Meadow Barn
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if have any questions or would like to book your wedding.
If you would like to schedule a tour of The Meadow Barn or The Veranda click here.
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