Getting Married in Oklahoma: Legal Requirements and Process

Before applying for a marriage license, research Oklahoma's specific requirements. Both parties must be 18+ years old (or have parental/judicial consent if 16-17). No blood tests are required in Oklahoma. You'll need to know the county where you plan to apply for the license.

Collect all documents needed for your marriage license application: valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.), Social Security numbers for both parties, and if previously married, proof of how the marriage ended (divorce decree, death certificate, etc.).

Visit the county clerk's office in any Oklahoma county to apply for your marriage license. Both parties must appear in person. The fee is typically $50-$60 (varies by county). The license is valid for 10 days after a 72-hour waiting period from issuance. The waiting period can be waived by a judge for good cause or military personnel on active duty.

Complete the marriage license application form at the county clerk's office. You'll need to provide information about both parties including full legal names, addresses, dates and places of birth, and information about previous marriages if applicable.

Decide if a prenuptial agreement is right for your situation. This legal document outlines how assets and debts will be divided in case of divorce or death. In Oklahoma, prenups must be in writing, signed by both parties, and entered into voluntarily with full disclosure of assets. Each party should have separate legal representation to ensure the agreement is enforceable.

If you decide to have a prenuptial agreement, work with an attorney to draft one that complies with Oklahoma law. The agreement should include full financial disclosure from both parties, be signed voluntarily without coercion, and provide fair terms. It should be finalized well before the wedding to avoid claims of duress.

Arrange for an authorized person to perform the ceremony. In Oklahoma, this includes ordained ministers, judges, retired judges, and various court officials. The ceremony must take place within 10 days of license issuance and have at least two witnesses present.

After the ceremony, ensure the officiant files the completed marriage license with the county clerk where it was issued within 5 days. This step legally finalizes your marriage. You can request certified copies of your marriage certificate for name change and other purposes.

If either spouse is changing their name, complete the process with multiple agencies. Start with the Social Security Administration, then update your driver's license with the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, and finally update other documents (passport, bank accounts, etc.). Each agency has specific requirements and forms.

If changing your name, complete the name change application form. In Oklahoma, marriage itself doesn't automatically change your name - you must apply for the change with various agencies starting with Social Security. Bring your marriage certificate as proof of the name change basis.

Marriage automatically revokes a previously executed will in Oklahoma unless the will specifically states it was made in contemplation of the marriage. Create or update your will to reflect your new marital status and ensure your spouse is included according to your wishes. Oklahoma law provides that a surviving spouse is entitled to a certain portion of the estate regardless of what a will states.

Draft a healthcare power of attorney designating your spouse (or another person) to make medical decisions if you become incapacitated. In Oklahoma, this document must comply with the Oklahoma Advance Directive Act. It should clearly state your healthcare preferences and who can make decisions on your behalf.

Create a durable power of attorney appointing your spouse (or another trusted person) to handle financial and legal matters if you become unable to do so. In Oklahoma, this document must be signed, dated, and either notarized or witnessed by two adults. Specify whether it takes effect immediately or only upon incapacity.

Review and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and other financial assets. Marriage doesn't automatically change these designations in Oklahoma, so you must update them manually if you want your spouse to be the beneficiary.

Decide which assets to hold jointly with your spouse. Oklahoma is not a community property state but follows equitable distribution laws. Consider how you want to title real estate, vehicles, and other major assets. Joint ownership with rights of survivorship allows property to pass automatically to a surviving spouse without probate.

Determine whether to maintain separate accounts, create joint accounts, or use a combination. Complete applications for any new joint bank accounts or credit cards. Discuss financial management strategies with your spouse to avoid future conflicts.

Marriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance or switch to your spouse's plan. In Oklahoma, you typically have 30 days after marriage to make these changes. Contact your insurance provider or employer's HR department to understand the process and complete necessary forms.

Research how marriage will affect your tax situation. If married by December 31, you'll file taxes as married for that entire tax year. Decide whether to file jointly or separately based on your financial situation. Consider consulting a tax professional to understand the implications.