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Blood Test

Laws requiring a blood test to be performed on couples wishing to marry exist in only a few states. In those states, a marriage license will not be issued until a blood test is performed.

Why do we have to have blood tests?

The blood test screens for syphilis and/or rubella (German measles). Laws requiring blood tests were enacted to prevent persons with venereal and other sexually transmitted diseases from obtaining a marriage license and passing the disease to a spouse or children of the marriage. In most states, blood tests can be waived for people over 50 and for other reasons, including pregnancy or sterility.

If the test is positive, what happens next depends on the state in which the marriage will take place. Some states may refuse to give you a marriage license while other states will allow you to marry as long as you are both notified that the disease is present.

SIDEBAR: Currently, blood tests are required in Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, and Oklahoma.

Do we both have to be tested before getting a marriage license?

Yes. Both marriage license applicants must have a blood test performed.

I had a blood test last year during my annual physical. Is that sufficient?

No. Laws require the blood test to be done within a matter of days before or after applying for the marriage license. Typically, the blood test must be performed within 30 days of the application.

Is there a fee?

Yes. The county health department will charge approximately $25. Lab and physician fees vary.

Who has to perform the blood test?

The test can be given by your own doctor, any physician, or an authorized lab. Additionally, county heath departments typically perform blood tests in states where the test is required to obtain a marriage license.

Are you tested for AIDS?

No. The blood tests do not screen for HIV, AIDS or sexually transmitted diseases other than syphilis. However, in some states, the person who tests you will provide you with information about HIV and AIDS.

TIP: If you want your blood tested for HIV or other factors, such as cholesterol, those tests can be added to the screening.

We had our blood tests done. Can we get our marriage license now?

No. You must wait until a medical or health certificate has been issued by either the county or your doctor.

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