Marriage License Info for
all 50 States
Ready to start your adventure?
Glad you’re here!
As an adventure elopement photographer, I know a thing or two about what it takes to get married. For my book, “Elope Your Life“, I’ve compiled with my editor all the latest info (for real, some counties we legit called) on each state so you’re not left cross-referencing outdated info across the web.
Hover/click on any state below to view information and start your marriage license search
5 Things to Remember when Applying for any Marriage License
- Most states require you to get married in the same state (though not necessarily the same county) that you obtain your marriage license. Some areas are more strict, like the Savannah, GA area.
- You’ll obtain your marriage license through a county clerk or records department.
- You must return your marriage license to the same place you got it (whether that’s in person or by mail).
- When in doubt about wording or unclear instructions, pick up the phone and call.
- Licenses expire within 30-90 days of application, depending on the state and county. Don’t get your marriage license too early!
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Alabama
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None (except for some non-residents)
Beginning in 2019, Alabama courts no longer issued marriage licenses. Instead, couples submit notarized forms to probate judges. The marriage becomes legal once the probate court records the completed form. Please visit the Alabama Public Health website for more information and to obtain a certificate.
https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/news/2019/08/20.html
Alaska
Witnesses: One (as of 2024)
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Alaska requires one witness at the ceremony. There is a three-day waiting period before you can pick up your application (time begins from when they receive your application), and the marriage license expires after three months. Good news! You can apply for an Alaska marriage license online, but you’ll still have to go into the Vital Records office or a courthouse to pick up your license that you’ll sign after your ceremony.
NOTE: If you’re applying and sending the marriage license application in from outside Alaska, the application may read like it must be notarized in Alaska before being sent in. This is NOT the case. Sign and get it notarized wherever you are, and send it in!
http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/VitalStats/Pages/marriagel/default.aspx
Your Guide to Eloping in Alaska
You’ve got me in your corner when it comes to eloping in Alaska. Click below for permit information, location inspiration and more!
Arizona
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in Arizona. Two witnesses of the signing of the license are required and the marriage license is valid for one year.
https://azcourthelp.org/topics/marriage/marriage-license
Arkansas
Witnesses: None
Waiting period: 5 Days
In Arkansas, there is no waiting period for people over 18 years of age; for those under 18, there is a five-day waiting period. Witnesses are not required, and the marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://static.ark.org/eeuploads/pulaski/MLInfoSheet.pdf
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- What is a Average Elopement Budget?
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Photographer
- How to Get Married Abroad as a US Citizen
- Sample Elopement Timelines
California
Witnesses: One
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in California and one witness is required (though there is room for 2 on the marriage license). The license is valid for 90 days.
- Del Norte County (Crescent City – no online application available as of 2022)
- Humboldt County (Eureka)
- Monterey County (Salinas, Big Sur)
- Mariposa County (Mariposa, Yosemite)
- Tulare County (Visalia, Sequoia NP)
https://sfgov.org/countyclerk/marriage-general-information
How to Elope in the Redwoods
If we’re being honest, I’m one of the closest and most established photographers for Redwoods elopements, and if you want locations, permit resources, and want to make sure you’re LNT-friendly among these giants, click below.
Colorado
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
In Colorado, there is no waiting period. While no witnesses are required, some judges, clergy, and other officials may request them. Couples can “self-solemnize” (get married without an officiant). The marriage license is valid for 35 days.
https://www.arapahoegov.com/318/Marriage-License
Connecticut
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in Connecticut, and no witnesses are required. The marriage license is valid for 65 days.
https://www.bridgeportct.gov/content/341307/341407/342080/342093.aspx (witness requirement)
Delaware
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: 24 Hours
Delaware has a 24-hour waiting period. Delaware also requires two witnesses for the wedding ceremony. The marriage license expires after 30 days.
https://sussexcountyde.gov/applying-marriage-license (waiting period and 30 days)
https://sussexcountyde.gov/filling-out-marriage-licenses (two witnesses for the ceremony)
District of Columbia
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
In Washington, D.C., there is no waiting period, no requirement for witnesses, and the marriage license does not expire.
https://www.dccourts.gov/services/marriage-matters (no waiting period)
Florida
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 3 Days (with options to waive)
In Florida, there is a three-day day waiting period. However, residents who can provide documentation showing they completed a state-approved marriage preparation course within the year do not have to wait the three days. For non-residents of the State of Florida, there isn’t a waiting period. However, all couples who apply for a marriage license must read the Family Law Handbook. Though not required by law, having witnesses is recommended. The marriage license expires after 60 days.
https://www.stateofflorida.com/getting-married-in-florida/ (for residents)
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Georgia
Witnesses: Dependent
Waiting Period: None
In Georgia, you must apply in the same county where the marriage is being performed if you are a non-resident of the state. There is no waiting period and the marriage license is valid for six months. Witnesses are required in some cases (please check with your county registrar).
https://www.athensclarkecounty.com/229/Marriage-Licenses
Hawaii
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period for obtaining a marriage license in Hawaii. You must go online and register to apply for a marriage license in Hawaii. You can mail your paperwork back, and officiants can turn in the paperwork to have it expedited. Officiants have to register their status separately in this state.
Idaho
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Idaho requires no waiting period and no witnesses. The marriage license does not expire.
https://www.idaho.gov/family-records/marriage/
Illinois
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: One Day
In Illinois, no witnesses are required but there is a one-day waiting period. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.co.madison.il.us/departments/county_clerk/vital_records/marriage_licenses.php (60 days, one-day waiting period)
Indiana
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in Indiana and witnesses are not required. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.in.gov/judiciary/2605.htm (no waiting period, 60 days)
Iowa
Witnesses: One (present when applying)
Waiting Period: 3 Days
There is a three-day waiting period in Iowa. You must have one witness present with you when applying, and the marriage license is valid for six months.
https://www.dmcounty.com/421/Marriage-Information (three-day waiting period, one witness)
Kansas
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Kansas requires a three-day waiting period and two witnesses at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for six months.
https://www.8thjd.com/197/Marriage-License-Information (three-day waiting period)
Kentucky
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
While there is no waiting period in Kentucky, you are required to have two witnesses at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for 30 days.
https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Pages/marriage-divorce.aspx (no waiting period)
Louisiana
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: 24 Hours (ability to be waived)
Louisiana has a 24-hour waiting period but that can be waived under special circumstances. Two witnesses are required at the ceremony and the marriage license is valid for 30 days.
https://www.jpclerkofcourt.us/marriage-licenses-passports/marriage-licenses/ (24-hour waiting period)
Maine
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period but two witnesses are required at the ceremony. It’s a good idea to check with the municipality for other requirements. The marriage license is valid for 90 days.
https://www.maine.gov/portal/residents/marriage.html (no waiting period, 90 days)
Maryland
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 2 Days
In Maryland, there is a two-day waiting period. The license must be applied for and picked up in the same county the ceremony is taking place. No witnesses are required and the marriage license is valid for six months.
https://www.courts.state.md.us/clerks/kent/marriage (two-day waiting period, same county, six months)
OTHER BLOG POSTS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN…
- QUIZ: Where Should You Elope?
- Should You Invite Guests to Your Elopement?
- What is a Average Elopement Budget?
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Photographer
- How to Get Married Abroad as a US Citizen
- Sample Elopement Timelines
Massachusetts
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Massachusetts has a three-day waiting period; no witnesses are required. The marriage license expires after 60 days.
https://www.mass.gov/guides/getting-married-in-massachusetts-before-the-wedding (three-day waiting period, 60 days)
Michigan
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Michigan requires a three-day waiting period (which can be waived in some circumstances) and two witnesses at the ceremony. The marriage license expires after 33 days.
https://www.miottawa.org/Departments/CountyClerk/VitalRecord/marriage.htm (3-day waiting period, can be waived, 33 days)
Minnesota
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
In Minnesota, there is no waiting period and two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for six months.
https://www.co.olmsted.mn.us/prl/vitalrecords/Pages/MarriageLicense.aspx (6 months)
Mississippi
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
For a couple to obtain a marriage license in Mississippi, both applicants must be 21 years of age or parental consent is required. No witnesses are required and the marriage license does not expire.
https://www.co.jackson.ms.us/300/Marriage-Licenses (21 years of age)
https://statelaws.findlaw.com/mississippi-law/mississippi-marriage-license-and-blood-test-requirements.html (more info on age requirement)
Missouri
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Missouri does not require a waiting period or witnesses. The marriage license is valid for 30 days.
https://www.mo.gov/home-family/marriage-divorce/ (30 days)
I’m giving away a free copy of “Elope Your Life”
As a thank you to couples like the ones I get to adventure with, here is a free copy of my book that’s helped get couples hyped for an intentional adventure.
This book is full of inspiration, beautiful stories, and ACTIONABLE items to guide you to the inspirational day that’s already inside you.
*BONUS* – You’ll also receive a copy of my elopement planning and packing checklist!
Montana
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Montana has no waiting period and you do not need witnesses. The marriage license expires after 180 days.
http://www.cascadecountymt.gov/departments/clerk-of-court/marriage-information (180 days)
http://laws.leg.mt.gov/legprd/LAW0203W$BSRV.ActionQuery?P_SESS=20191&P_BLTP_BILL_TYP_CD=&P_BILL_NO=&P_BILL_DFT_NO=LC1673&P_CHPT_NO=&Z_ACTION=Find&P_SBJT_SBJ_CD=&P_ENTY_ID_SEQ= (Requirement for women to submit to a blood test abolished)
Elope in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most desired destinations for couples who want to elope in Montana, and for good reason! There are several activities you can incorporate into your day, and with the right guidance you’ll be able to find a private spot for your ceremony!
Nebraska
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
In Nebraska, there is no waiting period but two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for one year.
https://www.hallcountyne.gov/content.lasso?page=6072 (one year)
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Nevada
Witnesses: One
Waiting Period: None
Nevada has no waiting period but one witness is required at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for one year.
https://www.washoecounty.us/clerks/mlb/index.php (one year)
New Hampshire
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in New Hampshire and witnesses are not required. The marriage license expires after 90 days.
https://www.visitnh.gov/weddings/getting-married-in-new-hampshire (90 days)
New Jersey
Witnesses: One
Waiting Period: 3 Days
New Jersey requires a three-day waiting period and one witness at the signing of the marriage license who knows both of the parties. The marriage license expires after six months.
https://www.state.nj.us/health/vital/registration-vital/marriage-licenses/ (witness)
https://www.nj.gov/health/vital/registration-vital/marriage-licenses/ (three-day waiting period)
New Mexico
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
New Mexico has no waiting period but requires two witnesses at the ceremony. The marriage license does not expire.
https://www.co.chaves.nm.us/160/Marriage-Licenses (must be returned within 90 days of the ceremony)
https://www.donaanacounty.org/departments/elected-officials/clerk/marriage-license (but does not expire)
New York
Witnesses: One
Waiting Period: 1 Day (can be waived)
New York requires a one-day waiting period (though it may be waived) and one witness at the wedding ceremony. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
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- QUIZ: Where Should You Elope?
- Should You Invite Guests to Your Elopement?
- What is a Average Elopement Budget?
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Photographer
- How to Get Married Abroad as a US Citizen
- Sample Elopement Timelines
North Carolina
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in North Carolina, but two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.mecknc.gov/ROD/Pages/Marriage.aspx (60 days)
North Dakota
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
In North Dakota, there is no waiting period, but two witnesses are required at the wedding ceremony. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.casscountynd.gov/our-county/finance-office/marriage-licenses-and-weddings/marriage-licenses (two witnesses at the ceremony)
https://www.ulc.org/wedding-laws/north-dakota (see step 6)
Ohio
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Ohio has no waiting period and no witness requirement. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.mcohio.org/government/courts/common_pleas_court_-_probate_division/marriage_license.php (60 days)
Oklahoma
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
In Oklahoma, there is no waiting period if the applicants are 18 years of age or older. Two witnesses are required at the wedding ceremony. The marriage license is valid for only 10 days.
https://www.oklahomacounty.org/Faq.aspx?QID=104 (discount for premarital counseling!)
https://theamm.org/marriage-laws/oklahoma (two witnesses at the ceremony)
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Oregon
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: 3 Days (can be waived in most counties)
Oregon has a three-day waiting period (which starts when you pay for your license in most cases), but many western counties will waive it with payment of $20 or so, depending on the county. Curry County, by Brookings, Oregon will not waive it. In Oregon, you can now apply online for your marriage license in most counties – though you’ll still have to appear in person. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
Popular counties and online applications:
– Multnomah County (Portland)
– Lane County (Eugene)
– Douglas County (Roseburg)
– Josephine County (Grants Pass)
– Jackson County (Medford)
– Deschutes County (Bend)
– Curry County (Brookings – this county will not waive the waiting period, and there appears to be no online application form)
https://www.co.washington.or.us/AssessmentTaxation/MarriageLicenses/requirements.cfm
Your Ultimate Guide: How to Elope in Oregon
As a born and raised Oregonian, you’ll have access to locations even the most “Insta-famous” photographers don’t know about. And that means privacy 😉 .
Pennsylvania
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 3 Days
In Pennsylvania, two types of marriage licenses are issued: a traditional marriage license and a “self-uniting” marriage license, which “does not require an officiant to solemnize the marriage.” Pennsylvania has a three-day waiting period with no witnesses required. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.co.washington.or.us/AssessmentTaxation/MarriageLicenses/requirements.cfm (two types of licenses, three-day waiting period, 60 days)
Rhode Island
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in Rhode Island, but two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license expires after 90 days.
http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE15/15-2/15-2-8.HTM (90 days)
https://health.ri.gov/records/howto/getamarriagelicense/ (two witnesses)
South Carolina
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 1 Day
In South Carolina, witnesses are not required. There is a one-day waiting period. The marriage license does not expire.
https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/probate/marriage-license.php#requirements
South Dakota
Witnesses: One
Waiting Period: None
There is no waiting period in South Dakota. One witness is required at the ceremony. The marriage license expires after 20 days.
https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/probate/marriage-license.php#requirements (20 days)
Tennessee
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Tennessee does not have a waiting period. Witnesses are not required, but there is room on the license for one witness to sign. The marriage license expires after 30 days.
https://www.shelbycountytn.gov/574/Marriage-Licenses
Texas
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Texas has a three-day waiting period. Witnesses are not required. The marriage license expires after 89 days. Texas marriage licenses can be used in other states.
https://www2.texasattorneygeneral.gov/files/cs/8marriage.pdf
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- Should You Invite Guests to Your Elopement?
- What is a Average Elopement Budget?
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Photographer
- How to Get Married Abroad as a US Citizen
- Sample Elopement Timelines
Utah
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
While there is no waiting period in Utah, two witnesses of the ceremony are required. The marriage license expires after 30 days.
http://www.utahcounty.gov/Dept/ClerkAud/Marriage.html (30 days, no waiting period)
http://www.utahcounty.gov/Dept/ClerkAud/Forms/InstructionsOfficiant-WalkIn.pdf (two witnesses of the ceremony)
Vermont
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Vermont has no waiting period and no witnesses are required. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
Virginia
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
Vermont has no waiting period and no witnesses are required. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/circuit/marriage/marriage-license-information (60 days, no waiting period, no witnesses required)
Washington
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 3 Days
Washington has a three-day waiting period. You can apply online (for example, in King County, where Seattle is located) in order to expedite the process. The marriage license expires after 60 days.
https://www.co.pierce.wa.us/faq.aspx?TID=93 (waiting period, 60 days)
https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office/marriage-licensing.aspx (two witnesses at the ceremony)
West Virginia
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: None
West Virginia has no waiting period and no witnesses are required. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
http://www.wvlegislature.gov/wvcode/code.cfm?chap=48&art=2
Wisconsin
Witnesses: None
Waiting Period: 6 Days (can be waived)
In Wisconsin, there is a six-day waiting period (though it can be waived) and two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license expires after 30 days.
http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/765/08 (two witnesses at the ceremony)
http://www.co.grant.wi.gov/docview.asp?docid=5847 (six days)
Wyoming
Witnesses: Two
Waiting Period: None
Wyoming has no waiting period but two witnesses are required at the ceremony. The marriage license expires after one year.
