Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Available to couples 18 and older. Both parties must be present to apply. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
A legally distinct option requiring premarital counseling and an agreement to limited grounds for divorce. Both parties must sign a declaration of intent, acknowledging the additional legal obligations.
Available for minors 16-17 years old with parental consent and judicial approval. Minors under 16 cannot marry under Louisiana law.
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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To apply for a Louisiana marriage license while in Louisiana, visit the Clerk of Court’s office in any parish. Both parties must be present with valid IDs and may need to provide additional documents like birth certificates.
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To apply for a Louisiana marriage license, both parties must appear in person at a parish Clerk of Court’s office in Louisiana. You cannot apply remotely and must travel to the state to complete the application process. Some parishes may offer an online pre-application, but final processing must be done in person.
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If you're outside the U.S., you can't apply for a Louisiana marriage license remotely. You must apply in person at a Louisiana parish clerk's office. Both parties must be present with valid identification and required documents.
No matter where you’re located, Courtly simplifies the process, helping you secure your online marriage license easily and legally.
Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.
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Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.
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Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.
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Most offices issue licenses immediately, though some may take a few days. Confirm whether you’ll need to pick it up or if a digital copy is available.
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If your license expires before your wedding, you’ll need to reapply—and repay the fees again. Stay on top of the deadline to avoid extra hassle.
Both applicants must present a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Those aged 16 or 17 require parental consent and judicial approval. Individuals under 16 are not permitted to marry under any circumstances.
Applicants should provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant doesn’t have one, they must sign an affidavit stating this fact.
A certified copy of each applicant’s birth certificate is required. If born outside the U.S., additional documentation, such as a valid passport or visa, may be necessary.
If previously married, applicants must provide a certified copy of the final divorce decree or the death certificate of the former spouse.
There are no residency or citizenship requirements to obtain a marriage license in Louisiana. Both residents and non-residents can apply in any parish.
Both parties must complete and sign the marriage license application in person at the parish Clerk of Court’s office. Some parishes may allow the application process to begin online, but finalization requires an in-person appearance.
Louisiana imposes a 24-hour waiting period between the issuance of the marriage license and the ceremony. This waiting period can be waived by a judge or justice of the peace authorized to perform the ceremony.
The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. If not used within this period, it must be returned to the Clerk’s Office for renewal.
The fee for obtaining a marriage license varies by parish, typically around $35.00. Covenant marriages may incur an additional fee. Please note that specific requirements and procedures can vary slightly between parishes. It’s advisable to contact the Clerk of Court’s office in the parish where you plan to apply for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Certain cases need more paperwork
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Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.
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Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.
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Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.
Detailed step by step application process
Or, skip the courthouse entirely!
Apply for a U.S. marriage license entirely online and have your ceremony officiated by
a licensed professional—all from the comfort of your home.
