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Equal rights for same-sex couples are an important issue in the United States. There are a lot of questions regarding the marriage law among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. These questions include discussions about where gay marriage is allowed, or about how to obtain a gay marriage license. Read through this article to learn the answers to some common questions regarding gay marriage laws and licenses in the United States.

On May 17, 2004, gay marriage became legal in the state of Massachusetts. During the following years, civil unions among gay couples became legal in the states of Connecticut and New Jersey. As of June , there are 13 states that have legalized gay marriage: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Washington, D.C. also legalized gay marriage.

A gay marriage license is the same as a regular marriage license. The only difference is that a gay marriage license shows identification of the matrimony of a same sex couple. It also proves that the couple has a legal marriage that is recognized by a particular state's government.

If you and your partner are a same-sex couple planning on getting married, the process and things you'll need are the same as those that heterosexual couples need. These items vary depending on your particular state's marriage laws. In general, the materials that you will need to obtain your license are birth certificates and passports or other forms of photo identification for each spouse. This will prove age. You will also need to provide your Social Security number in most states. You and your partner need proof of residency, depending on whether or not your license will be valid in the entire state or only in the county in which you apply for the license. Armed with your identification and proof of residence, you will generally visit your town or county clerk's office, pay a fee, and fill out any required supplemental documents. You can expect to be issued the license immediately or after up to a five-day waiting period. These are only general requirements; check with your county clerk to determine the exact documentation you'll need to bring.

Check with your city or state officials to see if your state allows gay marriage. As gay marriage has not yet been legalized on a federal, countrywide basis, you'll need to contact or research governmental agencies at your city or county level to learn the exact laws that are in place.