Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Available to any two adults. Valid for six months after issuance. Requires a three-day waiting period unless waived by a judge.
Offered to couples who complete 12 hours of premarital education. Costs less than a regular license and waives the waiting period.
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 Minnesota marriage license, visit the county courthouse or government center in any Minnesota county. You don't need to apply in your county of residence or where you plan to marry.
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Apply for a Minnesota marriage license at any county courthouse in Minnesota. You must appear in person with your partner. Non-residents can apply, but you can't submit applications online or by mail from outside Minnesota.
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If you're outside the U.S., you can't directly apply for a Minnesota marriage license. You must be physically present in Minnesota to apply. Contact the county recorder's office in the county where you plan to marry for specific instructions.
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 parties must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. The ID must be current and not expired.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Those aged 16 or 17 must provide parental consent forms and proof of age, such as a certified birth certificate.
Both parties must provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant doesn't have a Social Security number, they must sign an affidavit stating this fact.
If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of how the marriage ended. This can be a certified copy of a divorce decree or a death certificate of the former spouse.
While not strictly required, applicants should be prepared to provide their current address and county of residence.
Both parties must complete and sign the marriage license application form. This form is typically available at the county clerk's office or online through the county's website.
Although not needed at the time of application, applicants should be aware that they will need one or two witnesses (depending on the county) for the actual marriage ceremony.
Applicants must be prepared to pay the marriage license fee, which varies by county. Most offices accept cash, check, or credit card payments.
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.
