Mississippi Marriage

Mississippi marriage laws mandate specific requirements before couples can get a valid marriage license to marry in the state. Unlike many states, the minimum age to be married in Mississippi without parental consent is 21, rather than 18. Also, certain blood tests are required. See below for details on the requirements for obtaining a valid Mississippi marriage license.

 

Mississippi Marriage Consent Laws

• With Parental Consent: Males between 17 and 20 and females between 15 and 20 must obtain parental consent. Males 16 and younger and females 14 and younger cannot marry in Mississippi unless their parents petition a judge for a waiver of the age requirements.
• Without Parental Consent: Adults 21 and older do not need to obtain parental consent to be married in Mississippi.

 

Mississippi Common Law Marriage

Mississippi does not recognize common law marriages.

 

Mississippi Marriage License

• Residency:  No Mississippi residency requirement.
• Tests: Blood test for syphilis taken in the past 30 days prior to application.
• Identification Required:  Photo ID such as a driver’s license is required. Birth certificate and social security card are suggested as well.
• Appearance/Proxy:  No proxy marriages in Mississippi.
• Previous Marriages:  Previously married individuals must provide the date their previous marriage ended, and sign an affidavit stating that the marriage is over. Some counties may require individuals whose marriages ended in the last 6 months to provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate.
• Length of License:  No expiration.
• Fees:  $22, payable in cash only.
• Authorized Mississippi Officiants:  Any state judge, mayor, member of a local Board of Supervisors, and any member of the clergy.