• A bride's special day needs careful planning.Wedding bouquet the bride on background of wedding dress image by Aliaksandr Zabudzko from Fotolia.com
  
  When you are getting married, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not the marriage license is legal, especially if you are planning your wedding from another state. If you are getting married in Mississippi, being fully informed about the marriage license requirements can make your special day run more smoothly.
  
  

Blood Test

• The Mississippi State Department of Health requires a blood test before applying for a marriage license. The blood test can be done at any county health department location or at a private physician's office. The blood test can also be done in a state other than Mississippi but, according to the Department of Health, only "where the medical requirements are not less than those of Mississippi's." The blood test tests for syphilis, and both parties must undergo the test. Once you have had the blood test, provide a medical certificate to the clerk at the time of application. Do not wait more than 30 days after your test to apply for your marriage license though, or you will have to have another blood test.
  
  

Applying for the Marriage License

• There are no residency restrictions in Mississippi, and out of state residents can marry at any time, granted they follow the marriage license provisions. According to Mississippi law, applicants for a marriage license in Mississippi must apply in person to the clerk of the circuit court in any county. Parties are required to bring government-issued identification such as a driver's license or military ID, though it is recommended to also have birth certificates and Social Security cards with you when you apply. Do not forget the medical certificate from the blood test. Both parties must be present at the time of the application because both the bride and groom are required to swear over and sign the application. Be aware that if either party is under the age of 21, a parent must sign the license.
  
  

After the Application

• The standard waiting period from application to marriage license in Mississippi is 72 hours, so it is recommended that the marriage license is obtained well in advance of the actual ceremony. According to weddingvendors.com, the ceremony must occur within 90 days of the license being issued or it will expire. Each county in Mississippi has different rules about the 72 hours; for example, weekends may or may not count in the 72 hours, and the day you apply may or may not count as the first 24 hours. Consult individual counties with any questions.