New Hampshire introduces mobile marriage license services for people with medical conditions

Published Tuesday, Aug. 8th, 2023

Learn about the new accommodations offered by town and city clerks in New Hampshire for individuals and couples who are unable to appear in person for a marriage license appointment because of a documented medical reason. This mobile marriage license service will become available in some locations beginning in late September, when the revised marriage law becomes effective. (NH Senate Bill 89 / Chapter 159)

Want to get married in Manchester, or anywhere else in the beautiful state of New Hampshire?

Beginning September 26th, Town and City Clerks in New Hampshire will offer mobile marriage license services to individuals and couples who are unable to attend in-office appointments due to documented medical reasons.

These unique accommodations are expected to make it easier for individuals with certain medical conditions and disabilities to apply for their marriage license. Clerks will be able to hold marriage license appointments anywhere it’s convenient for the couple, including at home or in hospitals.

Currently, New Hamphsire law requires that both parties to a marriage meet with a clerk in person to file their ‘marriage intentions’ and apply for their marriage license. The only exceptions have been for members of the armed services who are unable to appear because of their military duties (New Hampshire Statutes § 5-C:42).

This measure amends the existing statute by adding a new exception for certain individuals with documented medical reasons.

"§ 5-C:42 V-a. If either party is unable to appear in person for documented medical reasons, the city or town clerk may accommodate the parties by meeting in person with the parties at such other location within the city or town as may be convenient."

Mobile marriage license services may not be available in all locations within the state, or for all individuals, and will be left to the discretion of the Clerk’s Office. Contact your local clerk’s office directly to learn more about this new service.

This measure (NH SB89 / Chapter 0159) was introduced by Sen. Regina Birdsell, District 19, earlier this year and was signed into law by Gov. Sununu on July 28th. The new provision will go into effect on September 26th, 2023.

Read the full text of the bill here: An Act Relative to Accommodation for Medical Reasons in Issuing Marriage licenses (NH Senate Bill 89 / Chapter 159)

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Jessica Levey

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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