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Waiting Period

In the past, a couple had to wait a matter of days or hours after obtaining the marriage license before they could actually marry. Currently, waiting periods exist in only a handful of states. For example, Texas law requires a 72-hour waiting period while Wisconsin requires 6 days. Where one is required, the typical waiting period is 2-3 days after the license is issued.

Because my fiancé is being shipped to Iraq tomorrow, we don't have time to wait. Can the waiting period be waived?

Yes. Military personnel on active duty are typically exempt from waiting periods.

How do we get the waiting period waived?

You must request a waiver from a judge. Typically, the clerk in the marriage license office will have a waiver form. You must find a judge and explain the reasons for needing the waiver. Once he signs the form, you can be married.

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