Marriage Certificate: Proof of Marriage and Name Changes
A marriage certificate is the official record that proves a marriage took place. USAGov says it is what you use after the wedding, in contrast to the license that gives permission to marry.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
Where to get it
For a U.S. marriage, USAGov says to contact the state vital records office in the state where you married. Ask about cost, the information you must provide, and whether you can request it online, by mail or in person. In some places, county or town offices keep the record, so rules vary by state.
Common uses
The Social Security Administration accepts a marriage document as proof of a legal name change, and it must be an original or certified copy. The State Department says a certified marriage certificate is accepted as proof of a name change for a passport. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management also lists a marriage certificate among documents for survivor benefit claims if not already on file.
Frequently asked questions
Is a marriage certificate the same as a marriage license?
No. The license grants permission to marry. The certificate proves it happened.
Do I need a certified copy to change my name?
SSA says an original or certified copy is needed. The State Department asks for an original or certified document showing the change when you mail in a recent name change.
Can I get a copy if I married abroad?
USAGov says to contact the embassy or consulate of the country where the marriage took place. For marriages abroad before November 9, 1989, it says to request a Certificate of Witness to Marriage Abroad from the State Department.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
Most popular definitions
- Birth Certificate Number: What It Is and What the Digits Mean
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries
- Authorized Requester: Who Can Order a Certified Vital Record
- Beneficiary: Who Receives Insurance, Accounts or an Estate
Recent definitions
- Adoption Birth Certificate: The New Certificate Issued After Adoption
- Affidavit of Birth: A Sworn Statement Used to Establish a Birth
- Amended Birth Certificate: What It Is and How It Appears
- Apostille: What It Is and When You Need One
- Authentication Certificate: Preparing U.S. Documents for Non-Hague Countries
Related guides
It depends on the state.
A marriage license is the document that gives you legal permission to marry.
