Getting a marriage license in Michigan is the first legal step for couples planning a wedding in the state. This guide explains who can apply, where to apply, and what to bring so your process stays simple and stress free.
Below you can compare key details at a glance, including eligibility, cost, waiting periods, and validity for a Michigan marriage license.
| Category | Details | Notes | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Both applicants must be at least 18, or have parental/judicial consent if under 18 | 16-17 year olds may apply with signed consent from parents or legal guardians | Michigan state law |
| Cost | $20 fee for the license | Accepted payment methods vary by county, so check with the local clerk | County clerk offices |
| Waiting Period | No waiting period after issuance | License is valid anytime after issuance for the solemnization ceremony | Michigan Department of Health and Human Services |
| Validity | License remains valid for 33 days from issue date | You must marry in Michigan before the expiration date on the license | County clerk offices |
Eligibility Requirements for a Michigan Marriage License
To secure a marriage license michigan, both applicants need to meet specific eligibility rules. Understanding these rules helps avoid delays and ensures the license is valid for your wedding.
Age and Consent Rules
You must be at least 18 years old to apply without extra documentation. If you are 16 or 17, you can still obtain a license with signed parental or judicial consent. Applicants under 16 are generally not eligible to marry in Michigan.
Where and How to Apply in Michigan
You apply for a marriage license michigan in the county where you plan to marry or where either applicant lives. Each county has a clerk or register who handles licenses, and most allow walk in visits or appointments.
Required Documents and Information
Bring proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport, and your Social Security numbers. If you were previously married, include legal documents showing the marriage ended by death or divorce.
Fees, Waiting Period, and Validity Details
The marriage license michigan fee is typically $20, but exact costs and payment options can differ by county. There is no required waiting period, and the license is valid for 33 days from when you receive it.
Solemnization and Expiration
You must complete the marriage ceremony before the license expires. After the ceremony, the officiant signs the license and returns it to the county clerk so your marriage can be officially recorded.
Key Steps and Recommendations for Getting Married in Michigan
- Check the specific requirements and fees with the county clerk where you plan to apply.
- Bring valid photo ID, Social Security numbers, and any divorce or death proof if applicable.
- Schedule your ceremony within 33 days of receiving the license to avoid reapplying.
- Confirm the officiant knows they must sign and return the license after the wedding.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can we apply in a different county than where we will marry in Michigan?
Yes, you generally can apply in any county, but you must marry in the same state. Some counties recommend applying where the ceremony will occur to simplify the process.
Do we need blood tests or a physical exam to get a marriage license in Michigan?
No, Michigan does not require blood tests or a physical exam. You only need to meet age requirements and provide the necessary identification and proof if applicable.
What happens if our marriage license expires before the wedding?
If the license expires, you must apply for a new one and pay the fee again. Plan your ceremony within the 33 day validity period to avoid this issue.
Can a couple who already has a license renew it if the wedding is delayed past the expiration date?
No, a marriage license cannot be renewed after expiration. You must obtain a new license if your ceremony date changes and falls outside the original validity window.