Civil Unions

Where do I Apply for a Civil Union License?

• BOTH parties appear in person.
• If either party is a resident of Rhode Island than you may apply for the license in the clerk’s office of either residence.
• If one party is NOT a Rhode Island resident and the other party is a Rhode Island resident, and the ceremony is to take place in RI apply for the license at the clerk's office of the party who has residency in Rhode Island.
• If BOTH parties are NOT residents of Rhode Island, the civil union license must be obtained in the City or Town in Rhode Island WHERE CEREMONY IS TO TAKE PLACE.

Documents to Bring with you:

• Certified birth certificates of both persons. (long form only - wallet size cards are not accepted)
• Photo identification for both persons.
• Certified copy of FINAL DECREE OF DIVORCE OR DISSOLUTION in the event of a previous marriage/civil union or a CERTIFIED DEATH CERTIFICATE in the event of the death of a spouse/partner.
• Blood test or physical are NOT REQUIRED.
• Both parties must physically present themselves at the Clerk's office to sign the license and attest to the information listed thereon. PROXY’S ARE NOT ALLOWED.
• The City Clerk's Office issues Civil Unions between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Age Requirements:

• Both parties must be eighteen (18) years of age or older.

Length of Time License is Valid:

A Civil Union License is valid for ninety (90) days from the date issued, and if not used, should be returned to the place of issuance.

Civil Union License Cost:

The cost is twenty-four ($24.00) dollars

How to Obtain a Copy of a Civil Union Certificate:

• Enter the City Clerk's Office, Room 301
• Present a picture identification of yourself, OR
• Request certificate by mail, enclose copy of your photo identification.
• Enclose check or money order made payable to "City of Pawtucket'" along with written request
• Mail request to: City Clerk's Office, 137 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
• State your full name and partner’s name, date of union, and where it took place.

Records are CONFIDENTIAL and are ONLY available by request to the persons named on the record or to a close relative.

Civil Union Certificate Cost:

$20.00 for the first certificate and $15.00 for each additional certificate when ordered simultaneously.