Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
The standard license for most couples. Valid for 60 days after issuance. Both parties must appear in person to apply. Requires proof of identity and age.
For individuals under 18. Requires parental consent and court approval. Must provide birth certificates and parental consent forms.
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 North Dakota marriage license while in North Dakota, visit the County Recorder's office in any North Dakota county. Both applicants must be present with valid photo IDs and pay the required fee.
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Apply for a North Dakota marriage license at any county recorder's office within North Dakota. You must appear in person with your partner. Out-of-state residents can apply, but you cannot obtain the license remotely while outside the state.
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To apply for a North Dakota marriage license while outside the U.S., contact the county recorder's office in the North Dakota county where you plan to marry. Some counties may offer online applications or allow mail-in requests for out-of-country applicants.
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 provide a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification 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 in North Dakota without parental consent. Those between 16 and 18 years old need parental consent and must provide a certified copy of their birth certificate.
Both applicants must provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant does not have a Social Security number, they must sign an affidavit stating this fact.
If either applicant 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.
North Dakota does not require blood tests for marriage licenses.
There are no residency requirements to obtain a marriage license in North Dakota. Both residents and non-residents can apply.
Couples must complete the marriage license application form provided by the county clerk's office. Both applicants must sign the form in the presence of the clerk.
Applicants must pay the required fee for the marriage license. The fee amount may vary by county, so it's best to check with the specific county clerk's office for current rates.
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.
