Marriage license & legal paperwork: Marriage certificates

After the ceremony the signed license is filed, and you order certified copies — you will need several.

The key points

Confirm the license was filed
Order several certified copies
Keep them somewhere safe
Use them for name changes

Quick answers

Is a marriage license the same as a marriage certificate?

No. The license gives permission to marry; once signed and filed after the ceremony, the county issues a certificate that proves you are married.

After the weddingAll questions

How do I change my last name after marriage?

Get certified copies of your marriage certificate, update Social Security, then your driver’s license, passport, banks and other accounts. Use the name change checklist.

After the weddingAll questions

Can men change their name after marriage?

Yes. Most states now let either spouse change their name using the marriage certificate, but rules differ, so check your state.

After the weddingAll questions

Marriage license & legal paperwork: Marriage certificates

Quick answers

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