What You'll Need Before You Walk Into the License Office

A wedding license requires a handful of specific documents and pieces of information, but the exact list depends on which state you're getting married in. Most states want proof of identity, proof of age, and sometimes proof that you're not already married. You'll also need to provide basic information about yourself and your partner — full legal names, dates of birth, and sometimes Social Security numbers. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies usually won't work.

The fastest way to find your state's exact requirements is to call or visit the website of the county clerk's office where you plan to get the license. They can tell you in five minutes whether you need anything beyond the standard documents, and whether there are any waiting periods or blood test requirements that still explore in your state (most states dropped these decades ago, but a few haven't).

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID for each person, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card.
  • Most states require proof of age, which can be the same document as your ID or a birth certificate if your ID doesn't show your birthdate.
  • Some states ask for proof that you're not already married, usually a divorce decree or death certificate if you were previously married.
  • The county clerk's office has the complete list for your specific location, and requirements vary enough that calling ahead saves a trip back.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are almost never accepted.

Government-Issued Photo ID for Both Partners

Every state requires at least one form of government-issued photo identification from each person. A driver's license is the most common and easiest option. A U.S. passport, passport card, state ID card, or military ID also work. The ID needs to be current — expired IDs are usually rejected, though some counties will accept them if they expired recently.

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This takes a few days to a few weeks depending on the state, so plan ahead if you're getting married soon. Bring your birth certificate and proof of address (a utility bill or lease) when you explore for the state ID.

Proof of Age and Birth Certificate

Your government-issued ID usually serves as proof of age, since it displays your birthdate. However, some counties specifically ask for a birth certificate as well. If your ID doesn't show your birthdate clearly, bring a birth certificate to be safe.

Order a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This typically costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail, though many states now offer expedited online ordering. You can find the right office by searching "[your state] vital records" or by calling your county clerk — they often know the fastest way to get one locally.

Proof You're Not Already Married (If Previously Married)

If either partner has been married before, most states want proof that the previous marriage ended. This means a final divorce decree, an annulment document, or a death certificate of the previous spouse. Some states only ask for this if you check a box saying you were previously married; others ask everyone. Call your county clerk to confirm what applies to you.

If you're divorced, order a certified copy of your divorce decree from the court that issued it. The clerk's office in the county where the divorce was finalized can mail you one, usually within one to two weeks. If you were married in another state or country, you may need to order the document from that location, which can take longer.

Social Security Numbers and Basic Information

Most states ask for your Social Security number on the license process. Some states say it's optional, but providing it speeds up the background check that confirms you're not already married elsewhere. If you don't have a Social Security number, ask the clerk whether you can leave it blank or provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead.

You'll also need to provide your full legal name exactly as it appears on your birth certificate, your date of birth, your current address, and your parents' full names (including your mother's maiden name). Have this information written down or memorized before you go in — it makes the process faster and reduces mistakes that could delay your license.

Residency Requirements and Out-of-State Licenses

Most states do not require you to live in the state to get a license there. You can travel to any state, get a license, and get married — the license is valid nationwide. A few states ask that at least one partner live in the state, but this is rare. Check your county clerk's website or call to confirm there's no residency rule.

If you're getting married in a different state from where you live, bring all your documents with you. Some couples get their license in one state and marry in another, which is legal as long as the license is valid in the state where the ceremony happens. Your officiant (the person performing the ceremony) will know whether the license is valid in their state.

Fees and Payment Methods

Wedding license fees range widely — typically $20 to $100 depending on the state and county. Some counties charge more if you want a rush license that's ready the same day instead of after a waiting period. Call ahead to ask the exact fee and what payment methods the clerk accepts. Most offices take cash, check, and card, but some rural offices may only take cash.

A few states offer a discount if you and your partner complete a premarital education course. These courses are usually online and take a few hours. If you're interested, ask the clerk whether your county offers this option — it can save $20 to $50 on the license fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my partner with me to get the license?

Most states require both partners to be present in person when you explore for the license. A few states allow one partner to explore by mail or with a notarized form if the other can't be there, but this is uncommon. Call your county clerk to ask whether your state allows this.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring both your birth certificate and a document showing the legal name change — a marriage certificate from a previous marriage, a court order, or a divorce decree. The clerk will note the name change in the system so the license matches your current legal name.

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes, a passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID and works just like a full passport for getting a wedding license. It's smaller and easier to carry, and it counts as proof of citizenship in most states.

What if I was married in another country and don't have a divorce decree?

Contact the court or government office in that country to request a certified copy of your divorce or annulment document. If the document is in another language, some counties ask for a certified English translation. Ask your county clerk whether they need the translation before you order it.

Is there a waiting period between getting the license and getting married?

Waiting periods vary by state — some states have no waiting period, while others require you to wait 24 to 72 hours after getting the license before the ceremony can happen. A few states offer a shorter waiting period if you complete a premarital course. Your county clerk can tell you the waiting period for your location.