How to Elope in Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the country’s smallest state, but “The Ocean State,” still offers up plenty of elopement locations, especially if you’re a fan of beaches.
Rhode Island outline map

Planning an Elopement?

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Why is Rhode Island great for an elopement?

Rhode Island is a great location for a water wedding. It’s not called “The Ocean State,” for no reason! With hundreds of miles of coastline that features beaches, coves and bays, you can be sure to find a lovely backdrop for a wedding or elopement. The state also offers many quaint towns, vineyards, farms and historic houses for those who don’t fancy a coastline ceremony.

Rhode Island’s weather is very changeable, but in general the summers are hot and the winters cold and snowy. Early fall tends to offer a nice balance of dry days, and temperatures that aren’t yet at their winter lows.

GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE

All states require a marriage license, so you need to ensure that you understand all of the requirements very early in the planning process. Luckily, it’s fairly straightforward in most cases as long as you meet the criteria and follow the state requirements.

Here is what you need to know about getting a marriage license in Rhode Island.

Is Same Sex Marriage Recognized?

Yes! Same sex marriage is recognized in all states, and at a federal level, under the Respect for Marriage Act which was signed into law in December 2022.

Will I Need to take a blood test?

No. Blood tests have been abolished as part of marriage license applications in all 50 states, so don’t worry if you’re afraid of needles!

Who Issues Marriage Licenses in Rhode Island?

Marriage licenses in Rhode Island are issued by the city or town clerk.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Rhode Island?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in Rhode Island. Non-residents should apply for their license in the county in which the marriage will take place, while residents may apply in any county in the state.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is no waiting period to marry in Rhode Island once a marriage license has been issued. You could get married on the same day that you receive it!

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses in Rhode Island expire 3 months after the date of issuance.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO GET MARRIED IN Rhode Island?

A couple must be aged 18 or older to marry in Rhode Island. Some sources still cite that minors may apply for a marriage license with parental consent, however this was abolished in 2021.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

Valid photo ID is required for a marriage license application, along with proof residency (if applicable). Valid ID documents include: a driver’s license, passport or state ID. You will also need a certified birth certificate.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Rhode Island?

There is a fee of $24 for marriage license applications in Rhode Island.

On Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve gotten the admin out of the way, you can get to the part you’ve been dreaming of: the wedding ceremony!

As you’d expect, each state has different requirements to make a marriage legal. Make sure you follow the guide below to get your marriage legally recognized.

Will i need witnesses to the marriage?

Rhode Island requires two witnesses to a marriage, in addition to an officiant.

DOES Rhode Island REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

An officiant is required to solemnize a marriage in Rhode Island. Luckily, the state makes it quite easy for non-traditional individuals, such as a family member or a friend, to be an officiant under their One Day Marriage Officiant Certification program. Other eligible individuals include: elected officials, judges, clerks or ordained clergy. Those ordained online are eligible too. Any of those individuals do not have to register under the One Day program, as they are already allowed to perform marriage ceremonies in Rhode Island.

SUMMARY

So that’s it, everything you need to know about eloping in Rhode Island. And if you think that it could be the place to host your special day, why not give me a call to chat about your wedding? I’m an experienced elopement photographer, and an ordained minister, so in most cases I can be your officiant too!

Planning an Elopement?

Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!

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