Thinking about tying the knot in 2025? Getting married is a joyful milestone—one that marks the beginning of a shared future. And while planning a wedding is full of exciting choices, one of the most important (and often overlooked) steps is getting a marriage license. This essential piece of paperwork is what makes your union legally recognized.
Still, questions about timing, paperwork, costs, and the state-specific rules can make the process confusing for new couples. It might feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand your state’s requirements, it’s all very manageable. That’s why we at Remitly created this guide—to show you how to get a marriage license in 2025 with clarity and confidence.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything from eligibility and required documents to step-by-step application instructions and tips on timing and costs. With a bit of preparation, this part of your journey can be one of the easiest to check off your wedding list.
Marriage license requirements: What you need to know
Before you walk down the aisle, it helps to understand how marriage licenses work:
Difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate
People often confuse these two documents, but each serves a different purpose:
- Marriage license: legal permission to marry, obtained before the ceremony
- Marriage certificate: official proof of marriage, issued after the ceremony and filing
Think of the license as your ticket to marry and the certificate as the record that proves you actually did.
Basic eligibility requirements
To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to meet these requirements:
- Age: In most states, both partners must be at least 18 to apply. Only Nebraska sets the age of majority at 19, while some states allow 16- or 17-year-olds to marry with parental consent or a court order.
- Previous marriages: If you’ve been married before, the marriage must have ended in divorce, annulment, or the death of your spouse. You need to be legally single—and have the right paperwork to prove this—in order to qualify.
Residency rules
You generally don’t need to live in the state where you plan to marry. But keep in mind that your marriage license is only valid in the state (and often the country) that issued it. For example, if you get a marriage license in New York state, you can’t use it to get married in New Jersey.
Waiting periods
Some states require a short waiting period between receiving your marriage license and holding the ceremony—usually between 24 hours and six days. The idea is to give couples a moment for reflection before making their union official. Not all states enforce this, and in some cases, judges can waive the waiting period for special circumstances.
Documents you’ll need to bring
Applying for a marriage license is usually straightforward, and most states require the same basic paperwork. Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
- Birth certificate
- Social security number or card
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Death certificate (if widowed)
- Passport, visa, or green card (for non-US citizens)
- Proof of address (for out-of-state residents)
Valid photo ID
Bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport. This confirms your age and identity, so have it ready.
Birth certificate
A certified copy of your birth certificate may be required to confirm your age and place of birth. Check with the local clerk’s office to see if this rule applies in the state where you plan to marry.
Social security number or card
Many states require your Social Security number or an official document that includes it. If you don’t have one (e.g., non-citizens), check with the clerk’s office for acceptable alternatives.
What to bring if you’ve been married before
If you’ve been married before, you’ll have to provide proof that the marriage ended legally.
- Divorce decree: A certified copy of the final judgment if you’re divorced
- Death certificate: A certified death certificate if your former spouse has passed away
For non-US citizens
If you or your partner isn’t a US citizen, bring your passport, visa, or green card. Some states may request additional documentation, so it’s a good idea to check with the local clerk’s office ahead of time.
For out-of-state residents
Planning to get married outside your home state? Some states may ask for proof of your current address—like a lease agreement or utility bill—before issuing your license.
How to get a marriage license: Step-by-step application process
Before we get into costs and fees, let’s walk through the steps for applying for your marriage license:
Before you go:
- Research local marriage license requirements: Every clerk’s office has its own rules, so it’s a good idea to check your local office’s website or call ahead to confirm the documents, current fees, and when the office is open.
- Gather your documents and make copies: Bring all required paperwork, including photocopies in case the office asks for them.
- Confirm office hours and whether you need an appointment: Some offices allow walk-ins, while others require you to book ahead. Double-check in advance so you don’t waste a trip.
At the office
- Check in and submit your documents: Both partners usually need to appear in person. You’ll need to show valid ID, proof of eligibility, and any required certificates.
- Complete the application form: You’ll be asked to provide full legal names, birth dates, current addresses, and places of birth. If you’ve been married before, include information about your previous marriage. Many offices also ask for your parents’ full names and birthplaces. Some may let you start the form online before your visit.
- Be prepared to pay: Payment methods vary—some offices accept only cash, while others allow checks, credit, or debit cards. It’s a good idea to check in advance.
- Receive your license: Most states issue the license once your application is approved and the fees are paid. In many cases, you can get your marriage license the same day.
Marriage license costs and fees across different states
Marriage license costs vary depending on where you apply. In most states, you can expect to pay between $10 and $115, though some locations may charge more.
What does the fee cover?
The standard fee typically includes the cost of processing your marriage application and issuing the official license you’ll need for the ceremony.
Are there extra costs to plan for?
Yes. After the wedding, you may need certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal name changes or updating documents like your passport or bank records. These usually cost an additional $10 to $25 each, depending on your location.
Refund policy
Marriage license fees are non-refundable in most states. If your plans change—or if your license expires before the ceremony—you won’t be able to get a refund.
Important timing considerations
Once you receive your marriage license, timing matters. Each state sets its own expiration rules, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
License expiration dates
Most marriage licenses are valid for 30 to 90 days from the date they’re issued. If the ceremony doesn’t happen within that timeframe, you’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again.
Best time to apply
To avoid last-minute stress, try to apply for your license three to two weeks before your ceremony. This gives you some buffer time in case of delays, while still ensuring the license is valid on your big day.
If your license expires
Unfortunately, expired licenses can’t be extended or renewed. If yours expires before the ceremony, you’ll have to start the process over, including repaying any fees.
Special circumstances and exceptions
While most couples follow the standard marriage license process, some situations require extra steps:
Military personnel stationed overseas
If you or your partner is serving abroad, many states let you apply by mail or through a designated representative. For example, in Texas, deployed service members can authorize someone else to apply with a notarized affidavit. Keep in mind that special forms and notarization rules vary by state.
Proxy marriages
A few states allow proxy marriages when one or both partners can’t attend in person. Montana permits double-proxy marriages, where representatives stand in for both partners. Texas, Colorado, and Kansas allow single-proxy marriages, with one partner present and the other represented by proxy. These arrangements usually require extra documentation and may need court approval.
Name change considerations
Your marriage license is the legal foundation for changing your last name, but it doesn’t update your records automatically. You’ll need certified copies to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, and other official documents.
Getting married in a different state
If you’re traveling out of state to get married, you need to apply for a marriage license in that state. Licenses are only valid in the state where they’re issued and cannot be transferred. Be sure to factor in that state’s waiting periods and expiration rules when planning your ceremony.
Take the next step toward your special day
Getting a marriage license is often simpler than most couples expect. The key is to gather your documents early, follow your local requirements, and apply at the right time to ensure your license is valid on your wedding day.
If you have questions, your local clerk’s office is the best place to get accurate, up-to-date information. Remember, securing your license is more than a legal formality—it’s a meaningful step toward your ceremony and the start of your life together.
FAQs
How far in advance should I get my marriage license?
Apply about two to three weeks before your wedding. This gives you a buffer in case of delays. Keep in mind that license expiration dates vary—some expire in 30 days, others remain valid for up to a year. Always confirm with your local clerk’s office.
Can we get married immediately after getting our license?
That depends on your state. Some allow same-day ceremonies, while others have a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours to six days. Check the local rules to plan without surprises.
What happens if we lose our marriage license?
Contact the issuing clerk’s office right away. They can usually provide a replacement for a small fee. Be sure to handle your license carefully and keep a copy—it’s required to officially record your marriage.
Do we both need to be present to apply?
In most cases, yes. Both partners must appear in person to submit the application, present ID, and take an oath. Exceptions may apply for military personnel stationed overseas or in states that allow proxy marriages.
Can we get a marriage license online?
Some local offices let you start or complete the application online, but most still require at least one in-person visit to provide documents and make a payment. Check with your local clerk’s office to confirm the process in your area.