Where to order a marriage license copy online
Most states now let you order a certified copy of your marriage license through their vital records office website, though the process and cost vary by state. You typically search for "[your state] vital records" or "[your state] marriage certificate" to find the official ordering portal. Some states use a centralized system; others direct you to the county where you were married.
A few states still require you to order by mail or in person, but even those often let you read and print the form online, then mail it with a check. The fastest online orders usually arrive within one to two weeks, though some states offer expedited shipping for an extra fee. You will need to know the county where you were married and have a valid reason to request the document — most states ask whether you are the person named on the license, a spouse, a parent, or an authorized representative.
Key Takeaways
- Search for "[your state] vital records" to find the official state website where you can order online; do not use third-party document services.
- You will need the county where you were married, the full names of both spouses, and the marriage date to complete an order.
- Most states charge between $15 and $30 per certified copy and require you to verify your relationship to the people on the license.
- Standard delivery takes one to three weeks; some states offer rush processing for an additional fee if you need the document sooner.
- A few states still require mail-in orders only, but you can usually read the form and instructions from their website.
How to find your state's vital records office
The fastest way is to go directly to your state health department website and look for a section called "vital records," "vital statistics," or "marriage certificates." The CDC also maintains a list of links to every state's vital records office at cdc.gov/nchs/w2w — this page has the correct web address and phone number for each state, which saves you from landing on a scam site.
Once you are on the official state site, look for a button or link that says "order online," "request a copy," or "vital records request." Some states use their own system; others contract with a third-party vendor. Either way, the official state website will direct you to the right place. Do not use independent document services or genealogy sites — they charge much more and straightforward submit your request to the state office on your behalf.
What information you need before you order
Have the following details ready before you start: the full names of both spouses as they appear on the license, the date of marriage, and the county where you were married. If you do not remember the exact date, most systems let you search by approximate year or name. You will also need a valid form of identification — a driver's license, passport, or state ID — because the state will verify your identity before processing the order.
Some states ask you to specify your relationship to the people on the license (such as "I am one of the people named on this license" or "I am a child of the couple"). This is a security step to prevent unauthorized copies from being issued. If you are ordering on behalf of someone else, you may need to provide their written permission or proof of your legal authority, such as a power of attorney.
Cost and payment methods
A certified copy of a marriage license typically costs between $15 and $30, depending on the state. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge per copy if you order more than one. A few states add a search fee if they have to look up your record in their archives. Expedited or rush processing, if available, usually adds $5 to $15 to the total.
Most state vital records offices accept credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks through their online portal. A few still require a check or money order mailed with a paper form. The website will show you the accepted payment methods before you submit your order. Keep your confirmation number or receipt — you will need it to track your order or contact the office if there is a problem.
How long delivery takes
Standard processing usually takes one to three weeks from the date you submit your order, though some states are faster. The timeline depends on how busy the vital records office is and whether they have to search for your record manually. Once the copy is processed, it is mailed to the address you provide — this adds a few more days depending on your location.
If you need the document urgently, check whether your state offers expedited processing. Some states can turn around an expedited order in three to five business days, though you will pay extra. A few states also offer in-person pickup at their office if you live nearby. Call the vital records office directly if the standard timeline will not work for you — they can sometimes tell you whether your record is straightforward to locate and whether rush processing will actually speed things up.
What to do if your state does not offer online ordering
A small number of states still require mail-in requests only. Even so, you can usually read the process form and instructions from the state website, fill it out at home, and mail it with a check. This takes longer than online ordering — typically three to six weeks — but the process is straightforward.
If your state does not have an online system, the vital records office website will have a printable form, the mailing address, and the current fee. Some states let you call ahead to confirm they have your record on file before you mail in your request. If you are in a hurry and your state does not offer online ordering, call the vital records office to ask whether they can accept a faxed or emailed request — some offices will make exceptions for urgent situations.
Certified versus uncertified copies
When you order online, you are almost always ordering a certified copy — a document with an official seal or stamp that proves it came directly from the state. This is the version you need for most legal purposes, such as changing your name, updating a passport, or proving your marital status to a government agency. An uncertified copy is just a photocopy and is not accepted for official use.
Some states let you choose between certified and uncertified when you order, and the uncertified version costs less. However, if you are unsure which one you need, order the certified copy — it works for any purpose, while an uncertified copy may be rejected. The state website usually explains which type is required for common reasons people request the document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a copy of someone else's marriage license?
Most states restrict who can order a copy. Typically, you must be one of the people named on the license, a parent or child of one of them, or have a court order or power of attorney. The state will ask you to verify your relationship before processing the order. If you are not related, you may not be able to get a copy.
What if I do not remember which county I was married in?
Many state vital records websites let you search by the names and approximate year without knowing the county. If the search does not work, call the vital records office — they can search their statewide database and tell you which county has the record. Some offices charge a small search fee if they have to do this manually.
How do I track my order after I submit it online?
Most states give you a confirmation number when you complete your order. Use this number to check the status on the vital records website or call the office. Some states send email updates as your order moves through processing. If you do not receive your copy within the stated timeframe, contact the office with your confirmation number.
Can I get a copy if my marriage license was issued a long time ago?
Yes. Vital records offices keep marriage licenses on file indefinitely, so you can order a copy no matter how long ago you were married. The search may take longer if the record is very old and stored in archives, but it should still be available. Call ahead if your marriage was more than 50 years ago to confirm the office has the record.
What if the names on my marriage license are different from my current legal name?
Order the copy under the names that appear on the license itself. If you have changed your name since the marriage, bring documentation of the name change (such as a court order or divorce decree) when you use the marriage license for official purposes. The vital records office will issue the copy with the original names on it.