Learn the Marriage License Requirements for Your State

Learn how bride Lisa Spooner saved $22,000 on her dream wedding

Obtaining the license is not something you can do too early in wedding planning and check off your list (they are only good for a certain amount of time).

Three or four months before the wedding (put this in your timeline), call the Clerk of Court for the county where you’re getting married and ask how to obtain the license.

Some states will include marriage license info on their county court website, but you should still call the clerk’s office to clarify specifics.

• Does the state require blood tests?
• Where do we go to get the marriage license?
• What do we need to bring with us?
• How much is the license?
• How long is the wait before we can pick up the license?
• Do both of us need to pick up the license or can one of us do this?
• Who can legally perform the wedding ceremony in your state? Are there any restrictions on the type of officiant we can use (important question if you plan to ordain a friend or family member online)?

In most states, the license is good for 30-60 days before it expires, the average cost is $25-$80.

Some states have a 24-hour to 3-day waiting period before you can pick up the license (important to know if your wedding is not in your hometown).

If one or both of you has been married before, be prepared to bring paperwork like a divorce decree or death certificate as legal proof that you are free to remarry.

The signing of the license -- not the ceremony -- is what makes your wedding legal.

The officiant at your wedding will also need to sign the license. In days gone by, this was traditionally done at the reception.

Make sure you know who will be filing your marriage license with your state government. Getting married is a solemn commitment both emotionally and legally and you don’t want your paperwork getting lost.

Return from marriage license requirements to the wedding ceremony ideas main page

Go to the wedding planning home page