Michigan Marriage License Requirements

MI Marriage License Requirements

Weddings are romantic and full of hopes and dreams come true. However they are also legal proceedings with rules and regulations. Here is what is required if you or your fiancé are Michigan residences or getting married in the State of Michigan. Please remember these laws can change, so it is recommended you contact your city or town’s County Clerk’s Office for confirmation on the current requirements. Where to Obtain a License: County Clerk’s Office Age Requirements: You must be 18 years old, otherwise 16 years old as long as you have parental consent. Your parents must appear with their own identification and if a custodial parent, proof of their custody. If you are 15 or younger, you will need both parental consent and the approval of the probate court. MI Residents: If either you or your future spouse is a resident of Michigan, then you must apply for the license in your county of residence, regardless of where in the state the wedding will take place. The license is valid throughout the State of Michigan. The marriage license fee is $20.00 for residents of Michigan. Out-of-State Applicants: If neither person is a resident, then you’ll have to apply for the license in the county where the wedding will occur. * If either person was previously married, he or she must show certified documents on how previous marriage ended such as divorce, annulment, or death. Identification Requirements: Valid driver’s license or state ID showing current address, birth certificate or valid passport. If passport is used instead of birth certificate, full names of both parents and the state or country where they were born must be provided at time of application. Social Security numbers of both parties is also required. Fees: The Marriage License fee in the State of Michigan, for Michigan residents is $20. Fees may vary depending on whether you are a resident or non-resident of Michigan. Three Day Waiting Period: A marriage license is not issued for a period of three days from the date of the application. For an additional cost, applicants can request a waiver of the three day waiting period from the clerk issuing the license. Does a Marriage License Expire? Yes, a marriage license is valid for up to 33 days. Blood Test Requirement: No

Who Can Preside Over the Ceremony:

Ordained minister, magistrate (a civil officer with power to administer and enforce law -- Justice of the Peace), mayor of a Michigan City or a judge. a