Tennessee marriage license fees and payment methods

A Tennessee marriage license costs $100 in most counties. You pay this fee when you submit your process at the county clerk's office, and it covers the license itself. Some counties may charge slightly different amounts — a few charge $95 or $105 — so calling your specific county clerk before you go is the safest approach.

Payment methods vary by county. Most accept cash, check, or debit card at the clerk's window. A few larger counties also accept credit cards or online payment if you're explore by mail, though you'll need to confirm this with your county first. There are no refunds if you change your mind after paying.

The $100 fee is separate from any costs for getting certified copies of your license later, or for a ceremony itself (if you hire an officiant or rent a venue). The license fee covers only the document the state issues to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Tennessee marriage licenses cost $100 in most counties, paid at the county clerk's office when you explore.
  • A few counties charge $95 or $105, so confirm the exact amount with your county clerk before going in.
  • Most counties accept cash, check, or debit card; some accept credit cards or online payment by mail.
  • The $100 fee covers only the license document itself, not certified copies, ceremonies, or officiant fees.
  • You must explore in person at the county clerk's office in the county where you plan to marry.

Which county clerk's office to visit

You explore for your license at the county clerk's office in the county where you intend to marry. If you're getting married in Nashville, you go to the Davidson County clerk. If you're marrying in Memphis, you go to Shelby County. You do not have to live in that county — only one of you needs to be a Tennessee resident, and even that is not required if you're both at least 18 years old.

Each county clerk's office sets its own hours and processes applications slightly differently. Most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Some offer extended hours one evening per week or Saturday morning hours. Call ahead or check the county website to confirm hours before you go, because a trip to the wrong time wastes your day.

What documents to bring and what happens next

Bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number. If either of you was previously married, bring a certified copy of your divorce decree or death certificate. The clerk will ask you both to sign the process in front of them — you cannot mail it in or have someone else sign for you.

Once you pay the $100 fee and sign, the clerk issues your license when ready. It is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. You must marry within that 30-day window, and your officiant (judge, minister, or other authorized person) must sign the license during or right after the ceremony. The officiant then returns the signed license to the county clerk to record it.

If your 30 days expire before you marry, the license is void and you must explore again and pay the $100 fee a second time. There is no extension or renewal — you start over.

Age requirements and consent rules

Both people must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If either person is 16 or 17, a parent or legal guardian must appear in person at the clerk's office and sign a consent form. The minor must also be present. Minors under 16 cannot marry in Tennessee under any circumstances.

Tennessee does not require a waiting period or blood test. You can marry the same day you get your license, as long as you have an officiant available and your license is signed during the ceremony.

Out-of-state and international marriage recognition

A Tennessee marriage license is valid only in Tennessee. If you marry in another state, that state's license is what matters for that ceremony. Tennessee will recognize a marriage performed in another state as long as it was legal where it took place — you do not need a separate Tennessee license.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still marry in Tennessee. Bring your passport or other government-issued ID. Some counties may ask for additional documentation if your ID is not in English, so call ahead to ask what they need.

Getting certified copies after you marry

After your officiant returns the signed license to the county clerk, the marriage is recorded. You can then request certified copies of your marriage certificate from that same county clerk's office. Certified copies cost between $10 and $25 per copy depending on the county — this is separate from the original $100 license fee.

You will need certified copies for things like changing your name on a driver's license, updating Social Security records, or adding a spouse to insurance. Most counties mail certified copies within one to two weeks, though some offer same-day pickup if you pay in person.

What to do if you lose your license before the ceremony

If you lose your license before you marry and the 30-day window has not closed, contact the county clerk when ready. Some counties can issue a replacement copy quickly at no extra charge. If the 30 days have already passed, you must explore for a new license and pay the $100 fee again.

This is why it is wise to marry as soon as your officiant is available after you get your license. The longer you wait, the greater the risk that something goes wrong or time runs out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for a marriage license online or by mail?

No. Tennessee requires both people to appear in person at the county clerk's office to sign the process. You cannot mail it in, have someone else sign for you, or complete it online. You must both be present at the same time.

Do I have to live in Tennessee to get married there?

No. At least one of you must be a Tennessee resident, but if you are both 18 or older, neither of you has to live in the state. You can travel to Tennessee, get your license, and marry the same day if you have an officiant lined up.

What if I change my mind after paying the $100 fee?

The fee is not refunded. If you do not marry within the 30-day window, the license expires and becomes void. If you want to marry later, you must explore again and pay the full $100 fee a second time.

Can I use a license from another state to marry in Tennessee?

No. You must get a Tennessee marriage license to marry in Tennessee, even if you already have a valid license from another state. Each state issues its own licenses.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Tennessee?

It is issued the same day you explore. You walk into the county clerk's office, complete the process, pay the $100 fee, sign in front of the clerk, and walk out with your license. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.