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Requirements for Marriage License

The following are the absolute minimum requirements for every applicant (see Checklist for Minors for the added requirements for minor applicants).

Both bride and groom must be present at the time of application.  Note: We do not issue licenses to incarcerated individuals under any circumstances.

The fee for the license is $40.00 (cash only -- we do not accept checks or credit cards).

The bride and groom must each have a US government issued photo ID (i.e., Driver's License, State ID, passport, VISA, etc.), or birth certificate.

The residency of the applicants is also an issue.  Ohio residents wanting to marry in Ohio, apply in the county where they reside.  Out of state residents getting married in Ohio, apply in the county in which they are getting married.

If either applicant has been married before, then the most recent Decree of Divorce (or Dissolution) must be presented.  Note: the copy of the decree presented should have the proper stamps and signatures showing it was in fact entered in the court, and we do not accept copies of separation agreements or custody papers.  If either applicant is a widow or widower we do not require a Death Certificate.

The couple must get married within 60 days of our issuing the license.  While there is no blood testing or waiting period, the license does expire 60 days after issuance.

The couple must swear, or affirm, that all information and testimony provided is true, correct, and complete.

The couple must sign their full name (including middle name) on the actual marriage license.

The Application Process

Upon entering our office a couple will fill out a written application, or present the Clerk with a completed application that can be printed from this website. This information will be used by the Clerk to prepare the actual application that will be kept on record. You will be asked to review your printed application and verify that all information is spelled correctly and all information is completely accurate. The Clerk will administer the oath before you sign your application, and you will then receive your marriage license.

In addition to receiving your marriage license, you will also receive a self-addressed return envelope. This envelope is to be given by you to the officiator of your marriage. The officiator will use this envelope to mail the completed Marriage Certificate, that is located on the bottom portion of the marriage license, to the Court. The Marriage Certificate is very important; your marriage license will not be complete until it is returned to the Court. The Certificate is what the Court uses to prepare a certified copy of your marriage license.

For Certified Copies
Find out what the procedure is for obtaining certified copies.
This section explains who can legally perform a marriage ceremony in the state of Ohio.  We also provide information for ministers wishing to be licensed in Ohio so that they too can perform marriage ceremonies.