Louisiana Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in Louisiana? This is your complete, verified guide to marriage license requirements — fees, waiting periods, witnesses, age requirements, and everything else you need to know to get legally married in Louisiana.
Marriage License Requirements in Louisiana (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | Varies by parish (typically $25–$35) |
| Waiting Period | 24 hours (may be waived under special circumstances such as military deployment) |
| License Validity | 30 days |
| Where to Apply | Clerk of Court in the parish |
| Documents Required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Minimum Age (No Consent) | 18 |
| Minimum Age (With Parental Consent) | Under 18 — contact parish clerk for requirements |
| Witnesses Required | 2 required |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in Louisiana
Louisiana uses parishes instead of counties. Waiting period can be waived for military members. License must be returned within 10 days of ceremony.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Louisiana Marriage License
- Gather your documents — Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties. If previously married, bring your divorce decree or death certificate.
- Visit Clerk of Court in the parish — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — Varies by parish (typically $25–$35). Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, card, money order).
- Observe the waiting period — 24 hours (may be waived under special circumstances such as military deployment). Plan your application date accordingly.
- Use your license within the validity window — 30 days.
- Return the signed license — after your ceremony, your officiant (or you, if self-solemnizing) must return the completed license to the issuing office.
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Source: Louisiana official vital records / court authority. Requirements verified May 2026. Always confirm current requirements directly with your local clerk's office before your visit, as fees and rules are subject to change.