Marriage equality for all might not become the law of the land in the Ocean State until this Thursday, but in Providence same sex couples can begin the paperwork part of the process starting today. The Capital City has set up special preregistration process for the flood of same sex couples applying for marriage licenses on Thursday.
In anticipation of the first day that Rhode Island’s marriage equality law goes into effect, the City of Providence will hold a three-day pre-registration next week for all couples who plan to obtain marriage licenses at City Hall on Thursday, August 1.
The City’s Department of Vital Statistics, on the first floor of Providence City Hall, will accept pre-registrations for marriage licenses from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 29, July 30, and July 31. If proper documentation is completed, marriage licenses may then be picked up at the Department of Vital Statistics during normal business hours on August 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Municipalities that celebrate and cultivate diversity are the places where creativity and ideas thrive,” said Mayor Angel Taveras. “I am excited to offer all loving, committed Providence couples the chance to celebrate their right to marry on August 1.”
Couples with at least one party who is a resident of Providence, as well as couples who are residents of another state but who will be married in Providence are eligible to receive marriage licenses and to pre-register at City Hall.
To pre-register and pick up marriage license on August 1, the City of Providence requires the following documents from both parties:
Certified Birth Certificates – birth certificates must include parent(s) name(s)
Valid Photo I.D. – government-issued I.D., passport or driver’s license
Proof of Residency – parties must present a utility bill, bank statement, car registration, tax return or pay stub with current address
If this is not either party’s first marriage, a certified final divorce decree or a death certificate from the previous marriage must be presented.All documents must be original and in English. If the documents are not in English, a certified translation must be presented and accompanied by the original documents. These documents must be notarized by a notary public.
Both parties must be present at the time of pre-registration and when picking up marriage licenses on August 1. There is a $24 license fee; it is advised that couples pay the fee during pre-registration (check or money order only, made payable to: City of Providence.)
Couples will be required to complete a Rhode Island Department of Health Certificate of Marriage Form, available in hard copy at the City’s Department of Vital Statistics or online at: http://www.providenceri.com/vital-statistics.